Punjab CM condemns attempt to damage Ambedkar statue in Amritsar; calls for strict action

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Monday strongly condemned an attempt to vandalise the statue of Dr B R Ambedkar in Amritsar, promising strict action against the culprit. The incident occurred at the Town Hall on Heritage Street near the Golden Temple.

On Sunday, the Amritsar Police arrested a man from Moga district who allegedly tried to damage the statue using a hammer after climbing it with a steel ladder. A purported video of the act has gone viral on social media, sparking outrage across political lines.

In a post on X, CM Mann called the incident “highly condemnable” and assured that no one responsible for such acts would be forgiven. “Strict action will be taken to ensure the unity and brotherhood of Punjab remains intact,” he added. The chief minister also instructed officials to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter.

The incident drew sharp criticism from opposition leaders. Punjab Congress chief Amrinder Singh Raja Warring called for a high-level probe, suggesting a possible “deep-rooted conspiracy” behind the act. Senior BJP leader Tarun Chugh echoed similar concerns, demanding stern punishment for the accused and a comprehensive inquiry.

Shiromani Akali Dal chief Sukhbir Singh Badal termed the act “heinous” and a deliberate attempt to hurt sentiments. “This vile act has deeply hurt millions. A thorough inquiry is essential to uncover the conspiracy and bring the culprit to justice,” he wrote on X.

The desecration attempt has sparked widespread outrage, with leaders and citizens uniting to denounce any divisive efforts targeting social harmony and unity in Punjab.