Fri Nov 07 22:56:20 UTC 2025: News Article Summary:
Dalit Statue Vandalized, Sparks Protest in Uttar Pradesh
Lucknow, November 8, 2025 – Tensions are high in Sijhari and neighboring villages in Uttar Pradesh’s Mahoba district after a statue of Sant Ravidas, a revered 15th-century Dalit saint, was vandalized on the night of November 6-7.
Villagers, predominantly Dalits, staged a sit-in protest, demanding swift action against the perpetrators. Police officials assured the protestors of a thorough investigation, and the demonstration has been called off. A case has been registered under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), and police are reviewing CCTV footage to identify the culprits.
Congress State secretary Brijraj Ahirwar joined the protest, issuing a two-day ultimatum for arrests, threatening further action if the accused are not apprehended.
Opposition parties have alleged that emboldened feudal elements are responsible for the act, accusing the ruling BJP of fostering a climate of hate that encourages such incidents. They cited a pattern of similar statue vandalizations targeting Dalit icons in the past year.
First Piper 