New Delhi: Tension gripped Motihari in Bihar after a statue of Mahatma Gandhi, installed near the spot from where he had launched the Champaran Satyagraha, was found vandalised, PTI reported. The incident has triggered outrage in the state.
SP Kumar Ashish, Superintendent of Police, East Champaran told ANI, "Some eyewitnesses have given statements to police. A police team has been formed to nab the accused. A home guard has been deployed here".
The statue of Mahatma Gandhi, which was installed in Charkha Park, located about 200 meters away from the city police station, was found damaged and dumped on the ground on Sunday night, said East Champaran District Magistrate Shirshat Kapil Ashok.
"The police are carrying out their investigations and those found involved in the act of vandalism will face action in accordance with law," the DM said.
"I take this opportunity to remind all that great people live on in the form of the ideals they espoused. Bapu, who stood for non-violence and truth cannot be undermined by such acts," the DM further said.
He also said that Power Grid Corporation of India Limited was undertaking maintenance of the park as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility.
"We will advise them to put in place adequate security arrangements. Installation of CCTV cameras will also be ensured. Re-installation of the statue will be done by the district administration," he said.
The Charkha Park was constructed in 2017 in front of the historic Gandhi Memorial. BJP MP and former Union Agriculture Minister Radha Mohan Singh had installed the statue of Mahatma Gandhi in Charkha Park.
The Champaran Satyagraha was the first Satyagraha movement started by Mahatma Gandhi in British India in 1917. The Champaran Satyagraha was a non-violent movement against the Tinkathia system used by the planters.