Chhattisgarh Mahatari Statue Vandalized in Raipur Ahead of State Festival; Clash Between Kranti Sena and Police

After the incident, members of the Chhattisgarhia Kranti Sena arrived at the scene and staged a protest. During this, clashes broke out between the police and the demonstrators.

Police Take Strict Action
The police have taken a strict approach, detaining Johar Chhattisgarh Party chief Amit Baghel and some members of the Kranti Sena. An FIR has been filed, and the police are searching for the accused. Authorities are using nearby CCTV footage to identify the unknown individuals involved.

Incident Location and Damage
The statue near Ram Mandir at VIP Chowk was vandalized by antisocial elements, resulting in the head of Mahatari being broken off. The incident occurred late at night, and it was discovered the next morning after public uproar. Protesters described it as an attack on Chhattisgarh’s pride and demanded the arrest of those responsible.

Political Statements
Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai stated that the accused will not be spared. Former CM Bhupesh Baghel tweeted that during programs organized under the BJP government, actions like removing images of Chhattisgarh Mahatari create a negative impression, warning that public outrage cannot be ignored.

Response from Cultural Organizations
The Kranti Sena and Bajrang Dal strongly condemned the incident. Bajrang Dal demanded that the culprits be shaved publicly in a procession and that a new 36-foot statue be installed. Leaders said the protest will continue until the accused are arrested.

Legal Aspect
The police have registered a case under Section 298 of the BNS, which pertains to offenses against any place of worship or religious object.

Social and Cultural Outrage
Former CM Bhupesh Baghel stated that the incident is an attack on the pride and cultural identity of Chhattisgarhis in the capital city of Raipur. Every Chhattisgarhi is angered by this incident, and it is completely unacceptable.