Overview
- The Additional District Magistrate confirmed a structure housing a statue said to be of Ahilyabai Holkar was demolished and ordered an inquiry to establish the statue’s identity and the circumstances.
- Protesters led by the Pal Samaj Samiti demanded reinstallation, alleging a century-old idol was removed without notice and that community sentiments were hurt.
- The Khasgi Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Charities Trust alleged multiple effigies were damaged on January 10 and said it is pursuing legal action against responsible agencies.
- The District Magistrate said no temple was harmed and that idols and artworks found during excavation have been secured for restoration by the Culture Department after construction.
- The Sub-Divisional Magistrate cited confusion over the works and possible involvement of outsiders, police are assessing the site, and the DM warned against misleading social media content as the CSR-funded project upgrades steps, cremation platforms and access.