After the protest and arson at Deekshabhoomi on July 1, a case was filed against the Nagpur City President of Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA) and 15 others from different social groups, plus some unidentified persons. The incident involved damaging construction materials and setting them on fire. One person tried to use an excavator but was stopped by the police. Ravi Shende, the Nagpur VBA President, is named in the case, along with leaders from other social groups. Investigations found many involved were from outside Nagpur. Deputy Commissioner of Police, Aswati Dorje, confirmed this and said the inquiry into the incident is ongoing, and those responsible will be charged accordingly, she stated.
Following Monday’s incident at Deekshabhoomi, the sacred monument has been heavily guarded with a strong police presence, effectively turning it into a fortress by Tuesday. Access to the Stupa and all roads leading to it has been restricted, with only local residents allowed entry. Police officials, stationed nearby, anticipate further protests from local groups.
On Tuesday, followers of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar tried to visit Deekshabhoomi but were turned away by police enforcing ongoing restrictions. Surveillance vehicles and a mini control room with watchtowers have been set up for continuous monitoring.
It’s worth noting that thousands gathered at Deekshabhoomi, chanting slogans and damaging construction. Police intervened, facing resistance as workers protested and demanded suspension of a parking project until their concerns were addressed.
In response to public outcry, the Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Deekshabhoomi Memorial Committee has halted all construction activities, issuing an official statement to that effect. The issue gained attention in the Legislative Assembly, where Congress MLA and former Minister Dr. Nitin Raut raised concerns. Deputy Chief Minister and Guardian Minister of Nagpur, Devendra Fadnavis, promptly announced a suspension of ongoing construction.
A meeting with the Committee is planned to reach consensus moving forward, yet Ambedkarite followers remained at the site into the evening despite the government’s decision.
The State Government allocated Rs 214 crore for the beautification and renovation of Deekshabhoomi, with construction starting six months ago in two phases. The initial phase, focusing on underground parking, sparked controversy due to fears of damage to the Stupa and Bodhi tree, water accumulation concerns, and other potential issues affecting structural integrity.
An investigation into Monday’s incident revealed that most protesters were from Wardha and Chandrapur. Police are probing the leaders who mobilized the demonstrators to Deekshabhoomi.