Dalit Community Calls Ludhiana-wide Bandh Over Alleged Insult to Dr. Ambedkar’s Statue

Dalits across Ludhiana began a bandh on Thursday, demanding action after a report of disrespect to a statue of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar surfaced. The protestors allege that the monument was defaced, an act they consider an affront to the legacy of the architect of India’s Constitution.

Local Dalit organisations coordinated the shutdown, urging residents to stay off the roads and businesses to remain closed until the matter is investigated. Major thoroughfares, including the highway that cuts through the city, saw traffic snarls as demonstrators blocked entry points.

Punjab police deployed personnel at key junctions to maintain order and prevent escalation. Officials have asked the public to cooperate with the bandh while assuring that any criminal act will be investigated. The administration has not yet confirmed the exact nature of the alleged insult.

While similar protests have been reported in other parts of the state, the Ludhiana bandh remains the most visible, drawing attention from political leaders and civil society groups.

As of the latest update, the bandh continues, with authorities monitoring the situation and urging calm among participants.