Vandalism of Ambedkar Statue in Amritsar Prompts Outrage and Political Fallout

The Republic Day incident has led to protests, arrests, and accusations of negligence and conspiracy in Punjab.

The statue of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, located on Heritage Street in Amritsar, was vandalized on Republic Day by a man who used a ladder left behind after a political tribute ceremony.
The accused, identified as Akash Singh from the Scheduled Caste community, was arrested shortly after the incident, and police are investigating further to determine any broader conspiracy.
Dalit organizations have called for protests, including an Amritsar bandh, citing failures in protecting the statue and demanding justice for the act of desecration.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann condemned the incident, promising severe punishment for those responsible and emphasizing the state's commitment to unity and law and order.
Opposition parties, including the BJP and Shiromani Akali Dal, have criticized the AAP government for alleged negligence, while some leaders have called the incident premeditated and politically motivated.