PHAGWARA: Shiromani Akali Dal (Badal) leaders Ranjit Singh Khurana, urban in-charge of Phagwara, and Rajinder Singh Chandi, rural in-charge, have strongly condemned the vandalization of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s statue in Amritsar’s Town Hall area. Terming the incident as unfortunate and highly deplorable, the leaders criticized the Punjab government for its alleged failure to maintain law and order.
Speaking to the media, the leaders expressed shock over how such a disgraceful act could occur in a sensitive area on Republic Day, a day when strict security measures are expected. They alleged that the incident highlights the inability of the Aam Aadmi Party government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, to ensure the safety of not just people but even symbolic statues of national importance.
Calling the incident a “planned conspiracy” aimed at disrupting peace and harmony in Punjab, the Akali leaders demanded a thorough investigation by Punjab’s Director General of Police (DGP). They urged strict punishment for the arrested suspect and others involved in the conspiracy. “Dr. Ambedkar holds immense respect in the hearts of every Indian. As the architect of the Indian Constitution, he ensured the protection of rights for all sections of society, ” said Khurana.
The leaders reaffirmed Shiromani Akali Dal’s deep respect for Dr. Ambedkar and solidarity with his followers. They criticized the state government for failing to prevent such incidents and demanded accountability for the lapse in security measures.