Thu Dec 19 19:10:15 UTC 2024: ## Parbhani Erupts in Violence After Desecration of Ambedkar Constitution Replica
**Parbhani, Maharashtra, December 20, 2024** – Violence erupted in Parbhani, Maharashtra, following the desecration of a replica of the Indian Constitution placed near a statue of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. The incident, which began on December 10th, escalated into widespread rioting and arson on December 11th, leaving a trail of destruction and one death.
The initial incident involved a scuffle between a man and an autorickshaw driver, resulting in the damage of the Constitution replica. While police claim the man was mentally ill, Ambedkarite groups, who constitute a significant portion of the population, were enraged and protests ensued, including a brief blockade of a train.
The following day, Ambedkarite organizations called for a bandh, leading to further clashes with police. Stone pelting, arson, and tear gas were reported. Authorities responded with a Section 163 order, prohibiting gatherings of five or more people, and temporarily suspended internet services. The police reported damage to property, injuries to police personnel, and the arrest of over 200 people, including minor girls. Critically, Somnath Suryavanshi, a law student who was allegedly picked up by police, died in custody, fueling further anger and accusations of police brutality.
The violence has sparked accusations of police overreach and targeting of Dalits. Ambedkarite groups allege that non-Dalits infiltrated the protests to incite violence and blame the Dalit community. The timing of the incident, coinciding with a right-wing march protesting atrocities against Hindus in Bangladesh, has further fueled speculation of a calculated attempt to create communal tensions.
The incident has drawn sharp criticism from the opposition in the Maharashtra Assembly, who condemned the state government’s handling of the situation. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis responded by assuring that the government would not tolerate insults to the Constitution. However, accounts from residents, traders, and victims paint a picture of widespread fear, economic losses, and lingering distrust of the authorities. The investigation into the incident is ongoing, with conflicting narratives surrounding the perpetrators and the scale of police involvement. The long-term impact on community relations in Parbhani remains uncertain.
First Piper 