HYDERABAD: Tensions flared on Friday in Kolchar, the mandal headquarters, following a verbal altercation between Dalit leaders and youth association members over the installation of statues.
The dispute arose after Dalit leaders set up an Ambedkar statue on the main road leading from the Medak–Hyderabad National Highway into the village, allegedly without prior permission, in connection with the upcoming Ambedkar Jayanti celebrations on 14 April.
On Friday, members of youth associations conducted a ground-breaking ceremony at the same spot to install a statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji and began digging a foundation for a pedestal. This prompted objections from Dalit youths and leaders, escalating tensions.
As both groups gathered and began raising slogans, the situation grew more volatile. Sub-Inspector Mohammad Ghouse arrived with his team and attempted to mediate between the two sides. However, as the situation showed signs of further escalation, additional police forces were deployed.
The conflict was eventually brought under control after police dispersed the opposing groups.