Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh.
In the early hours of February 18, around 3 a.m., the statue of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar located at Fatehpur Ghat under the Puramufti police station area was allegedly vandalized by some anti-social elements. As soon as the news spread, anger and tension escalated across the district. For many locals, this was not merely an act of vandalism but an attack on the sentiments and identity of an entire community.
On February 19, when members of the Bahujan community gathered to peacefully protest the incident, the situation reportedly worsened. According to sources, FIRs were filed against nearly 40 individuals, including youth, elderly persons, and several women. Five people have been arrested so far.
Eyewitnesses claim that when women stepped forward to protect the statue and voice their protest, the police resorted to lathi-charge and fired tear gas shells. Several women were injured, and some are currently hospitalized. Since then, an atmosphere of fear has gripped the area. Reports suggest that many men from the Fatehpur Ghat locality have left their homes, fearing further action.
Members of the local Dalit community have alleged that the main accused are being shielded. Some have even claimed that the accused attempted to influence the case through financial means at the police station. However, these allegations have not yet been independently verified.
Questions are also being raised about the response of political parties. The victim community alleges that no concrete action has been taken so far. Some residents have further claimed that due to caste affiliations of the accused, certain political leaders, including Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, have remained silent on the matter.
The region continues to remain tense, with people demanding justice and impartial investigation. This incident has become more than just a law-and-order issue—it has turned into a test of social harmony, equality, and administrative fairness. The coming days will reveal whether the authorities can ensure transparent and unbiased action to restore trust and peace in the community.
