Balodabazar district of Chhattisgarh witnessed a major upheaval as thousands of protesters gathered, encircled the Collector's office, and set vehicles on fire. A fierce clash erupted between the police and the agitated crowd during the demonstration.
What sparked the unrest?
The protest was organised by the Satnami community in response to the vandalism at Amar Gufa and the desecration of the Jaitkham (sacred flag ofthe community). Thousands of Satnami community members from across the state congregated to voice their outrage and demand justice.
The protesters were calling for the death penalty for those responsible for the vandalism at Amar Gufa and the destruction of the Jaitkham. Following a heated demonstration at the Dussehra ground, the protesters marched towards the Collector's office. The situation escalated as the protesters clashed with the police, eventually setting vehicles in the Collector's office premises on fire.
It is noteworthy that the Amar Gufa holds significant religious importance for the Satnami community, being linked to their spiritual leader, Baba Guru Ghasidas, whose sacred site is located in Girodpuri. On the night of May 15-16, anti-social elements vandalized the Mahkoni Temple within the Amar Gufa complex, causing widespread anger among the Satnami followers.
After receiving complaints, the police registered an FIR against the miscreants and arrested three individuals. However, the arrests have not quelled the community's anger. The Satnami community is now demanding a CBI investigation into the incident.
CM Orders High-Level Probe
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has summoned the Director General of Police (DGP) and the Chief Secretary (CS) in response to the arson incident at the Balodabazar Collectorate. He has ordered a high-level investigation and directed officials to take stringent measures against the culprits responsible for the unrest.
He said, "On the unpleasant situation that arose in Baloda Bazar district, the IG and Commissioner have been instructed to immediately reach the spot. The Chief Secretary and DGP have been summoned and preliminary information about the incident has been taken and a report of the incident has also been sought."
Highlighting action taken by the government, CM Sai said, "Home Minister Vijay Sharma had already been directed to conduct a judicial inquiry into the Amar Gufa case of Girodpuri, which was announced by him."
Meanwhile, Home Minister Sharma, who is also the deputy CM of the state said, "First of all I want to request those whose property was damaged to remain calm. Action will be taken against those who are behind this."
The situation in Balodabazar remains tense as authorities work to restore order and address the demands of the Satnami community.
Reported by: Sikander
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