Gwalior police on high-alert ahead of Oct 15 protests call:30 checkpoints set up 4,000 police personnel deployed after Ambedkar statue row escalates

Tension is rising in Gwalior over the Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar statue controversy, which has now taken a dangerous turn. What began as social media arguments and challenges has escalated into a potential confrontation, with October 15 being marked online as a “day of showdown.” The situation has put police on high alert, reminding many of the April 2, 2018 violence that left three people dead and led to a nine-day curfew. Checkpoints set up across several districts This time, authorities are taking no chances. Over 30 checkpoints have been set up across Gwalior, Bhind, Morena, Datia, and Shivpuri districts- including 36 in Gwalior alone, with 17 in the city and 19 in rural areas. More than 4,000 police personnel and officers will be deployed. Fear has also gripped local markets, where traders remain uncertain about opening shops on October 15, recalling the heavy losses suffered during the 2018 riots. More than 500 posts deleted from social media The entire matter of October 15 originated from viral social media posts. Inflammatory posts were continuously made from some IDs. Police have gotten more than 500 posts deleted in 2 days. Now investigation is being done to determine whether the IDs from which posts are being made are genuine or fake. If these are found to be fake, FIRs will be filed against the account holders. An entire police team is keeping watch on every social media activity. Most activities affected Guidelines for locals and checkpoints These will be special checkpoints Riot accused made to execute bonds Police have also targeted the accused involved in the riots of April 2, 2018 and after making them execute bonds, have clearly warned that if they create even the slightest mischief, the police are prepared. They will remember the police for their entire life. Along with this, the police have shown their strength by conducting foot marches, neighborhood meetings, and flag marches. Police personnel in civil dress have been continuously deployed in areas that are sensitive. Claim – Several organisations have withdrawn their protest It should be noted that the district administration has updated on their social media group that the district administration, police, and many social organisations have stated they are withdrawing from the protest. Rupesh Ken, associated with the Army organisation of Dalit community, informed the administration that we have withdrawn the protest scheduled for October 15th. No posts will be made, nor will any protest be conducted. This has been submitted in writing to the police and administration. The administration and police have assured that the SC-ST Act will be added to whatever FIR has been filed. Traders said – There is fear in the market In this matter, Ajay Gupta, operator of Laxmi Medical in Murar Sadar Bazaar, said that there is fear in the market regarding the 15th, because on April 02, 2018, the maximum damage occurred in the markets of Murar. We ourselves are thinking whether to open the shop that day or not. Will decide after seeing the situation that day. Administration should be strict – We will open shops Sadar Bazaar jeweller Naresh Jain said traders are not afraid and will open their shops on October 15. He added that the administration and police are strict, and those trying to disturb the atmosphere through agitation warnings should face tough action. SSP Gwalior Dharmveer Singh stated that there will be no compromise with peace in the district. He said anyone attempting to create unrest will face strict action, and the police are fully alert. Officers and personnel are monitoring every situation, with continuous flag marches being conducted across the city.