Maharashtra: Violence Erupts in Parbhani Following Attack on Ambedkar Statue and Indian Constitution

Violence erupted in Parbhani, Maharashtra, on Wednesday after an alleged act of desecration of the Indian Constitution and a statue of Dr. BR Ambedkar. The incident ignited widespread outrage, leading to arson, stone-pelting, and protests, as demonstrators demanded strict punishment for the perpetrators.

The unrest began when an unidentified individual allegedly damaged a replica of the Indian Constitution that was placed near the Ambedkar statue outside the Parbhani railway station. This act of vandalism sparked anger among local residents and members of the Dalit community, who viewed it as an insult to both Ambedkar and the Constitution.

As protests escalated, demonstrators set vehicles on fire and clashed with police, while voicing their outrage over the attack. "We will not tolerate any insult to Babasaheb or the Constitution," said one of the protesters.

In an attempt to quell the violence, the police deployed tear gas and a large force to control the situation. Despite their efforts, tensions remained high as the protests intensified throughout the day.

Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA) President Prakash Ambedkar voiced his support for the protesters, condemning the attack on the statue. "The vandalisation of the Constitution at Babasaheb’s statue by casteist Maratha miscreants in Parbhani is extremely shameful. This is not the first time such an attack on Babasaheb’s symbol of Dalit identity has occurred. VBA Parbhani workers were the first to respond, leading to an FIR and the arrest of one of the miscreants. I urge everyone to maintain law and order. If all the culprits are not arrested within the next 24 hours, there will be consequences! Jai Bhim,” said President Prakash Ambedkar.

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and Samajwadi Party (SCP) leader Fahad Ahmad expressed concern over the escalating violence, calling it a serious matter. "The unfortunate incident involving Babasaheb Ambedkar and the Constitution in Parbhani district, followed by violence and arson, is a matter of concern. The ongoing conflict over the Home Minister position in the Mahayuti government is continuing, while the law and order situation in the state is deteriorating," he said.

Congress spokesperson Atul Londe also weighed in on the situation, criticizing the continued disrespect for the Constitution. "Since 2014, there has been continuous disrespect for the Constitution. We have seen the Constitution being burned in the corridors of Parliament, and now, the question arises: people are not ready to accept the mandate, and protests are happening continuously at various places in Maharashtra," Londe stated.​