The incident involving the burning of a portrait of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the chief architect of the Indian Constitution, and the raising of objectionable slogans in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, has escalated into a major controversy. Police have registered an FIR at the Cyber Cell police station against seven individuals, including advocate Anil Mishra. Soon after the incident, Anil Mishra and four other accused were taken into custody, while investigations into the role of the remaining individuals are ongoing.
Complainant Makarand Bauddh stated that the incident took place on January 1 between 1 pm and 2 pm near Patel Nagar Tiraha in the City Centre area. It is alleged that a group named “Rakshak Morcha,” led by Anil Mishra, took out a procession without official permission. During the procession, the accused allegedly burned a portrait of Dr. Ambedkar and raised objectionable slogans, thereby disturbing public peace and undermining social harmony.
Following the circulation of the incident’s video on social media, widespread anger erupted across the city. Several social organisations and Bahujan groups condemned the act as an insult to the Constitution and the Dalit community, demanding strict action against those responsible. Police have initiated legal proceedings based on video footage and digital evidence.
Azad Samaj Party leader Sunil Astey, in a post on X (formerly Twitter), said, “Burning Baba Saheb’s portrait in Gwalior is not just hooliganism; it is an attack on the Constitution.” He warned that if the administration fails to act in time, the issue could turn into a “historic movement.” He demanded stringent action under the National Security Act (NSA), asserting that any insult to the Constitution would not be tolerated.
Bahujan organisations have urged Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav to take a clear stand and ensure strict action against the culprits. Police officials stated that, given the seriousness of the matter, investigations are underway under charges related to disturbance of public order, promotion of social enmity, and provisions of the Information Technology Act. Digital forensic evidence is being collected, and efforts are ongoing to identify and trace other suspects.
Sunil Astey further stated, “This is neither a personal nor an organisational act; it is a direct attack on the Constitution and democratic values. Baba Saheb symbolises the rights of every citizen, and insulting him is an insult to society as a whole. The delay in timely action by the police and administration worsened the situation. Strict punishment is necessary so that no one dares to insult the Constitution and its architect in the future.”
The incident has triggered deep concern and anger among Bahujan communities and pro-Constitution groups across Gwalior and the wider state of Madhya Pradesh.
