14 injured, including police, in Ambedkar Jayanti violence

At least 14 people, including police personnel, were injured after violence broke out during an Ambedkar Jayanti procession in Madhya Pradesh’s Sidhi district. The clash escalated into mob attacks, prompting police action and a flag march to restore order

Sidhi: A dispute during an Ambedkar Jayanti rally in Madhya Pradesh’s Sidhi district on Tuesday escalated into violence, leaving at least 14 people, including members of a family and police personnel, injured.

According to information, the dispute began over the removal of a Bolero vehicle parked along the procession route in Amiliya town in Sidhi district, which led to heated arguments.

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The disagreement soon turned into a clash between two groups. Participants in the Ambedkar Jayanti procession vandalised the vehicle, which led to a further escalation of violence in the town.

In the meantime, around 50 masked individuals allegedly forced their way into the house of Mani Shukla (22) and attacked the family members. Stones were pelted and the occupants were assaulted.

Mani Shukla sustained serious injuries, while Ramakant Shukla (80), Archana Shukla (40) and Divyansh Shukla (22) were also injured. Two people suffered head injuries in the attack.

Later, a mob of nearly 200 people stormed the Amiliya police station, vandalising property and pelting stones inside the premises.

The administrative office and investigation room were also damaged. Station in-charge Rakesh Bes and his team attempted to control the situation, during which constables Ramcharitra Pandey and Satish Tiwari were injured, police said.

Senior officials, including District Collector Vikas Mishra, reached the spot to monitor the situation.

He added that out of the 14 injured, eight have been discharged after treatment, while six are still undergoing medical care.

He also said that police have registered a First Information Report in connection with the incident and launched an investigation.

Authorities have appealed to the public to maintain peace and not pay heed to rumours.

“The situation is now completely under control. A flag march has been conducted, and continuous dialogue is being maintained with residents to ensure peace,” Mishra told media.