In the early hours of Tuesday, a disturbing incident unfolded in Kanpur, where miscreants targeted and unleashed violence at a 'Buddhist Katha' program organized by the Dalit community. This resulted in the Uttar Pradesh Police apprehending five individuals. The occurrence transpired around 2 am, prompting the registration of a case against 16 people, with an ongoing investigation.
The distressing situation unfolded during a nine-day Buddha Dhamma and Ambedkar knowledge discussion that commenced on December 15 in Pahewa village, Kanpur. On the fourth day of this event, a group of miscreants arrived in multiple vehicles and proceeded to vandalize the venue. The villagers allege that attendees were subjected to physical assault, leading to severe injuries for one individual.
The victim, Pintu Kushwaha, who was present at the venue, was reportedly attacked when he protested against the vandalism. The assailants, armed with a saber, inflicted head injuries on him, necessitating his subsequent hospitalization for treatment. The extent of the damage inflicted includes the tearing of tent curtains, destruction of chairs, and defacement of images of Ambedkar and Buddha. Additionally, a statue of Saint Ravidas installed at the venue suffered damage.
The perpetrators, after wreaking havoc, fled the scene after firing several rounds into the air. Law enforcement officials promptly responded to the incident, assuring the community of stringent action against the accused. Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Ankita Sharma informed India Today TV that an FIR has been lodged, naming nine individuals, and efforts are underway to apprehend other suspects.
Notably, the FIR incorporates serious sections of the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, emphasizing the gravity of the offenses committed during this regrettable incident. The multifaceted details surrounding the case underscore the urgency and importance of a thorough investigation to address the broader implications of the attack on the Dalit community's cultural and religious gathering.
