Tensions Erupt in Aligarh as Two Groups Clash Over Ambedkar Statue Installation

Tensions flared on Tuesday over the installation of a statue of BR Ambedkar in Bheempur village, resulting in violence and arson. Two policemen sustained injuries during the unrest, according to officials. The conflict arose between two groups, each claiming ownership of a piece of land where one group attempted to erect the statue. In the chaos, four motorcycles were set ablaze.

Police Intervention and Arrests

Authorities have arrested several individuals, including the village pradhan, her husband, and a former pradhan. An FIR has been filed naming 14 people, with an additional 200 unnamed individuals also booked. Police have restored order in the village and deployed a significant force as a precautionary measure to prevent further incidents.The dispute began when one group initiated the installation of the Ambedkar statue on land that district officials identified as belonging to the gram sabha. The opposing group claimed the same land for constructing a temple dedicated to another deity. This group alleged that their rivals had sparked the conflict by starting temple construction three days earlier.

Efforts to Resolve Dispute

Senior Superintendent of Police Sanjiv Suman stated that both groups had met with senior district officials earlier in the day, seemingly resolving the issue. However, tensions reignited when attempts to install the statue resumed. SSP Suman explained that district officials had previously clarified that neither group had a legitimate claim to the land and prohibited any construction activities.On Tuesday evening, police received reports of individuals attempting to place the Ambedkar statue on the disputed land. When officers intervened to remove it, they faced resistance from the crowd, who began throwing bricks. SSP Suman emphasized that law enforcement would not tolerate any breaches of peace and assured strong punitive measures against those responsible for disturbing order.The police have halted all construction activities initiated by both groups to maintain peace in the area. The situation remains under control with heavy police presence ensuring no further escalation occurs.