Gwalior Tense Over Statue Dispute, 3000 Police Personnel Deployed For Security

National News: A statue dispute has once again disturbed the peace in Gwalior. One group is demanding installation of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s statue, while another supports a statue of Sir B.N. Rao. The disagreement worsened after remarks by former High Court Bar Association president Anil Mishra. His comments triggered widespread protests by Dalit organizations, demanding his arrest. Demonstrations have been reported across several districts, creating fears of 2018-like caste clashes that left seven people dead.

Political parties raise the heat

The issue has also sparked political reactions. Congress MLA Phool Singh Baraiya warned that unchecked tensions could lead to violence. BJP’s SC Morcha national president Lal Singh Arya said Ambedkar is a national pride and symbol of India’s Constitution. He accused “some forces” of trying to weaken India by disturbing communal peace. Leaders across parties are calling for restraint, but ground tensions remain high.

FIR registered against lawyer

In response to public outrage, Gwalior Crime Branch registered an FIR against Anil Mishra. Following this, lawyers staged protests, burning effigies of the SP and Collector. Meanwhile, Dalit groups have used social media to announce a large demonstration on October 15. Authorities fear that mobilization through online appeals may create law and order issues if preventive steps are not taken immediately.

Police on maximum alert mode

Anticipating unrest, police have stepped up security. Over 3000 personnel will be deployed across Gwalior on October 15. Security has also been tightened at 30 check-posts across Chambal region. Monitoring of hotels, entry points, and public places is underway. Police teams are keeping close watch on social media posts, identifying people spreading provocative content. SSP Dharamveer Yadav confirmed that additional companies of security forces have been requisitioned to ensure control.

Authorities appeal for peace

District officials, including the Collector and SP, have held meetings with community leaders urging calm. They stressed that maintaining Gwalior’s tradition of peace is in everyone’s interest. Officials are reaching out directly to organizations, requesting them to avoid provocative actions. Meanwhile, religious and social groups have also appealed to citizens to stay away from violence. Police and administration are making coordinated efforts to prevent escalation.

Restrictions and preventive orders

To prevent unrest, Section 163 has been imposed in Gwalior. No protests or demonstrations will be allowed without permission. The administration has warned that anyone spreading rumors or posting inflammatory content online will face strict legal action. Police have already identified several social media users and filed cases against them. These steps aim to keep the situation under control before October 15’s proposed agitation.

Mock drills and security exercises

Police have also conducted mock drills to prepare for possible riots. SSP Dharamveer Yadav stated clearly that no organization has been permitted to protest. Any attempt to disturb law and order will be dealt with firmly. Additional forces have been stationed in sensitive areas, while surveillance and patrolling have been increased. The administration is confident that with these measures, peace can be maintained in Gwalior and neighboring districts.