Police launch hunt after Dr Ambedkar statue desecrated in Muzaffarnagar

Police launched a major search for suspects after a statue of Dr Bhim Rao Ambedkar , the chief architect of India’s Constitution, was desecrated by unidentified individuals on Wednesday in Vehalna village of Muzaffarnagar district, officials said. The incident, which police believe may have been carried out to create tension in the community , drew swift action from law enforcement.

Circle Officer Siddharth Mishra said officers reached the site soon after receiving information about the act of vandalism and that the damaged statue has since been repaired . Local authorities have installed CCTV cameras around the site to help identify those involved and are actively working to arrest suspects connected with the case. Extra security forces have been deployed in the village as a precautionary measure to maintain peace and prevent any escalation.

The incident comes at a time when the Uttar Pradesh government has recently approved a ₹403‑crore scheme to beautify, develop and secure statues of Ambedkar and other social reformers across all 403 assembly constituencies, with works including protective canopies, boundary walls and site improvements. This state‑wide initiative, named the Dr B.R. Ambedkar Murti Vikas Yojana , is scheduled to launch on Ambedkar Jayanti on April 14 and is aimed at strengthening heritage protection and community relations.

The police investigation is ongoing, and authorities have appealed to residents to remain calm while they probe the motive behind the act.