In a disturbing turn of events, members of two communities in Ujjain district, Madhya Pradesh, clashed over the installation of a statue, resulting in stone pelting and heightened tensions in the Makdone area. The incident unfolded when a group installed a statue of former deputy prime minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, leading to clashes between the dominant Malviyas (Scheduled Caste) and the Patidars (Other Backward Classes).
Incident Unfolds
The clash erupted on Thursday morning as the Patidar community members used tractors to bring down the life-size idol of Sardar V. Patel, which was installed by the rival Patidar group just a day earlier. The conflict stems from a longstanding disagreement over whether to install a statue of Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar or Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The local panchayat was reportedly deliberating on the matter, adding to the existing tensions
Superintendent of Police (Ujjain) Sachin Sharma acknowledged the dispute, stating that a situation of stone pelting ensued over the installation of the statue. He reassured that the police forces have successfully restored peace in the area, with markets reopening and traffic returning to normalcy. Six individuals, including one associated with the video showing a tractor, are under investigation, and the police emphasize strict action against those resorting to vigilantism.
Clashes, Injuries and Legal Actions
The clashes involved two groups pelting stones at each other, resulting in injuries to two policemen and two civilians. The statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was not only broken with a tractor but also set on fire by an unruly mob. Disturbing videos of the incident circulated on social media platforms, highlighting the severity of the situation.
Additional SP (Ujjain Rural) Nitesh Bhargava reported the filing of three FIRs related to rioting, SC/ST Atrocities Act violations, and promoting enmity between different groups. While over a dozen individuals are being questioned, no arrests have been made thus far. The police have taken measures to maintain peace, including suspending the local police station in charge.
Communal Perspective
Leaders from both communities provided their perspectives on the incident. Patidar leaders, Ashok Gami and Pankaj Bohra, asserted that they had the necessary permissions for the installation and accused the SC community of initiating the violence. On the other hand, Sevaram Malviya, a local SC leader, claimed a decade-long struggle to install the statue and accused the police of failing to maintain law and order.
The incident in Ujjain underscores the deep-seated communal tensions arising from disputes over statue installations. As investigations unfold, it is crucial for authorities to address the root causes and ensure a fair resolution to prevent such incidents from recurring. The community, political leaders, and law enforcement must collectively work towards fostering harmony and understanding to prevent further escalation of tensions in the region.