Overview
- Two statues of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar were stolen from the same site in Jaitpura village, Dhar district, within hours, triggering protests from locals and Bhim Army members.
- A third statue was installed by the district administration to pacify the community, but it was later desecrated, prompting further unrest.
- Police have registered an FIR, deployed additional personnel at the site, and are reviewing CCTV footage to identify the culprits.
- Community leaders and local officials have called the incidents deliberate attempts to insult Ambedkar's legacy and provoke social tensions.
- Incidents of theft and vandalism targeting Ambedkar statues have been reported increasingly across Madhya Pradesh, reflecting broader challenges in safeguarding public memorials.