New Delhi: The vandalism of a statue of Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar in Gonda’s Samarupur village has prompted widespread protests across Uttar Pradesh.

According to Kashmir Media Service, this incident marks the fifth occurrence of such vandalism in the state over the past two months, intensifying concerns within the Dalit community and highlighting increasing hate-driven acts.

The statue, a longstanding symbol of pride and equality for the local Dalit community, was severely damaged. Local residents have taken to the streets, demanding the arrest of the perpetrators and the reinstallation of the statue. Deepak Gautam, an activist with the Bhim Army, condemned the attack, asserting it as a direct affront to Dr. Ambedkar’s memory. Gautam called for immediate action from authorities to prevent future occurrences, emphasizing that these incidents are part of a pattern targeting symbols of equality and empowerment for the Dalit community.

The destruction has led to widespread outrage, particularly on social media, with demands for increased government accountability and protection of Dalit symbols. Protesters in Gonda, mainly from the Dalit community, expressed their anger over the continuous attacks on symbols they hold sacred for their pride and equality.

Opposition parties have criticized the incidents, associating them with the BJP-led government’s alleged “politics of hate.” Congress national secretary Shahnawaz Alam accused the ruling party of creating an environment that permits violence against Dalit symbols. Alam argued that these acts are part of a broader agenda, encouraged by divisive politics, aimed at undermining Dalit self-respect and Dr. Ambedkar’s legacy, which is central to India’s democratic foundation.