📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / The Tribune newspaper
Local
Dalit Groups Shut Down Jalandar, Call for Hoshiarpur Closure Over Alleged Ambedkar Statue Insult
✍️ Amar Ujala · Punjab
🗓 10 Sep 2026, 12:35 PM
👁 5
Dalit activists in Punjab urged a shutdown of Jalandhar and a closure of Hoshiarpur today, protesting what they say is an insult to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s statue.
Dalit representatives in Punjab announced a citywide shutdown of Jalandhar on Monday, urging residents to stay indoors as a protest against the alleged disrespect of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's statue. The call also included a demand for the closure of nearby Hoshiarpur, where supporters were expected to join the demonstration.
Market areas in Jalandhar fell silent as shops remained closed and traffic was halted. Police presence increased at major intersections, and the city administration reported a significant reduction in public movement.
An ambulance en route to a medical emergency was caught in the traffic jam, highlighting the disruption caused by the protest. Authorities have appealed for calm and have urged emergency services to find alternative routes.
The protest follows accusations that a local group had defaced or otherwise insulted the statue of the constitutional architect, prompting strong reactions from Dalit communities across the state.
Market areas in Jalandhar fell silent as shops remained closed and traffic was halted. Police presence increased at major intersections, and the city administration reported a significant reduction in public movement.
An ambulance en route to a medical emergency was caught in the traffic jam, highlighting the disruption caused by the protest. Authorities have appealed for calm and have urged emergency services to find alternative routes.
The protest follows accusations that a local group had defaced or otherwise insulted the statue of the constitutional architect, prompting strong reactions from Dalit communities across the state.