Gwalior witnessed a surge in tension on Wednesday over a dispute regarding the installation of a statue of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, but prompt action by the police and local administration ensured that the situation remained under control and peaceful. The row, which had the potential to escalate into large-scale unrest, stemmed from allegedly offensive remarks made by a senior lawyer opposing the installation of Ambedkar’s statue on the premises of the Madhya Pradesh High Court’s Gwalior bench.

The controversy emerged when Anil Mishra, a senior lawyer and former president of the High Court Bar Association, reportedly made statements opposing the Ambedkar statue. The remarks drew sharp criticism from Dalit organisations, who demanded his arrest and threatened to hold demonstrations. Simultaneously, a counter-group voiced support for Mishra, resulting in the announcement of planned protests from both sides.

Police and Administration Response

In anticipation of potential unrest, the Gwalior police and district administration deployed stringent security measures across the city. Additional Superintendent of Police Bidati Dabar confirmed that around 4,000 personnel had been mobilised, with special checkpoints established at all district borders. Vehicles and individuals were being systematically checked to identify any suspicious activity, while additional surveillance was conducted near key locations, including Mishra’s residence in the Patel Nagar area.

The Gwalior Collector, Ruchika Chauhan, said that the administration had engaged with various community leaders and organisations over the past 48 hours to ensure that tensions did not escalate. Weapon checks were conducted at multiple sites, and schools were declared closed for the day to prevent large gatherings and ensure student safety. Chauhan described the situation as “normal and peaceful,” attributing the stability to the coordinated efforts of law enforcement and civic authorities.

Police officials emphasised that maintaining peace and public order was their top priority. “Strict action will be taken against anyone attempting to disturb communal harmony,” said a senior officer. The warning prompted Dalit organisations and other groups to withdraw their planned demonstrations, effectively averting potential confrontations.

Underlying Dispute

The core of the row revolves around a longstanding demand by Dalit organisations to install a statue of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar at the Gwalior High Court premises, recognising his contributions as a jurist, social reformer, and architect of the Indian Constitution. Ambedkar statues have often become symbolic of social justice and Dalit empowerment, making their installation a matter of significant public interest and sensitivity.

Opposing this demand, another faction proposed the installation of a bust of Sir B.N. Rao, a former justice and constitutional expert, on the same premises. The conflicting demands have created friction between different social groups in the city, with political and social implications, given Ambedkar’s status as a prominent figure in India’s struggle for equality and justice.

Public Safety Measures

In response to the row, the Gwalior administration intensified patrolling in sensitive areas and maintained a high alert in commercial and residential zones likely to see gatherings. Surveillance cameras and quick-response units were deployed strategically to monitor any untoward incidents. Roads leading to key judicial premises were kept under special watch, and rapid intervention teams were prepared to manage any flare-ups.

Authorities also engaged with local residents and community leaders to promote dialogue and de-escalate tensions. The collective efforts of the administration and police reportedly played a crucial role in dissuading protesters from taking to the streets, preventing any confrontation.

Impact on the City

The heightened security measures and the cancellation of protests ensured that Gwalior remained largely calm on a day that had initially been fraught with uncertainty. Schools were closed as a precautionary step, reducing the risk of civilian exposure to potential disturbances. The police presence also reassured residents that any attempts to disturb law and order would be swiftly managed.

Officials indicated that security would continue to remain tight in the coming days until the controversy is fully resolved. The administration also reiterated that any individuals found attempting to incite violence or communal tensions would face strict legal action.

Conclusion

The Ambedkar statue row in Gwalior highlights the delicate balance between public sentiment, historical symbolism, and law and order. While disagreements over commemorative symbols are not uncommon in India, the swift response of the police and administration demonstrates the importance of proactive measures in preventing escalation. By maintaining vigilance, establishing checkpoints, and engaging with community leaders, Gwalior’s authorities successfully prevented potential unrest, ensuring peace and public safety.

The situation remains under close observation, and officials continue to engage with all stakeholders to seek a resolution that respects historical legacies while maintaining civic harmony.