Karnataka : Dr BR Ambedkar’s Portrait Desecrated with Cow Dung and Garland of Slippers

Incident occurs in Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah’s own constituency

Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar

Mysuru, Karnataka – In a shocking incident that has triggered widespread condemnation, a portrait of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was defiled with cow dung and adorned with a garland of slippers in Vajamangala village, located in the Mysuru taluk of Karnataka. The act took place shortly after Ambedkar Jayanti celebrations on April 14.

The portrait, along with banners and cut-outs of Dr. Ambedkar that had been displayed in the village, were found vandalized. According to reports, the desecration occurred in Vajamangala, which falls under the Varuna Assembly Constituency—represented by none other than Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

This incident has raised serious questions about the safety of Dalit icons even in states governed by parties that claim to champion constitutional values. (It is the irony of Congress leaders flaunting their commitment to the Constitution while such acts go unchecked in their own backyard. – Editor)

The Siddhartha Yuvak Sangha had organized events to commemorate the 134^th birth anniversary of Dr Ambedkar in the village. It was in the aftermath of these celebrations that the vandalism occurred.

Police have begun an investigation, and efforts are underway to identify and apprehend the culprits behind the disgraceful act.

Editorial Perspective

Even in a Congress-ruled state where leaders advocate Constitution to others, Dr Ambedkar is not spared from insult.