Gwalior CSP Hina Khan joins ‘Jai Shri Ram’ chant:Lawyers termed Ambedkar idol installation anti-Sanatan; sparking debate over Sunderkand recitation at Siddheshwar Temple

A controversy over the installation of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s statue in the Gwalior Bench of Madhya Pradesh High Court has intensified. The Collector had prohibited any gatherings, events, or assemblies near the High Court premises. On Tuesday, Advocate Anil Mishra’s supporters attempted to conduct a Sundarkand recitation at Siddheshwar Temple, near his residence, but found the temple closed and heavy police presence in place. CSP Hina Khan intervenes The supporters set up a tent on the road to continue the Sundarkand recitation. CSP University Hina Khan intervened and asked them to disperse, citing Section 163 orders, as directed by the SDM. During the confrontation, the crowd accused Hina Khan of being anti-Sanatani (anti-Hindu) and began chanting ‘Jai Shri Ram’. In a surprising turn, Hina Khan herself joined in, chanting loudly alongside the crowd, stating, “I can do this too.” Security arrangements around Mishra’s residence Advocate Anil Mishra, who has been vocal against Ambedkar, resides near Siddheshwar Temple in Patel Nagar. Following social media threats exchanged on October 15, police established tight security around his residence, with CSP Hina Khan overseeing the arrangements. Dispute over Sundarkand recitation To reduce tensions, the Collector and SSP held a meeting with social organizations and temple authorities, instructing them to avoid any events likely to attract crowds for three days. When Mishra’s supporters arrived at the temple, they found it already hosting the regular Tuesday Sundarkand recitation, but could not enter. The temple priest confirmed that they were following police orders, allowing no additional gatherings. CSP Hina Khan’s statement Hina Khan clarified, My job was to maintain law and order. Whether an event occurs inside the temple is the decision of the SDM and temple authorities. I only performed my duty. The incident sparked considerable commotion in the area but was eventually contained once Hina Khan joined the chants and asserted control over the situation.