Statue Standoff: Tensions Escalate in Rajasthan Village

A conflict erupted in Nagaur, Rajasthan, over the installation of a statue of Maharaja Surajmal at a public square, leading to heavy police deployment. The confrontation began when one group erected the statue without consensus. Efforts are underway to resolve the longstanding dispute.

On Tuesday, tensions flared in Jodhiyasi village, Nagaur, as two groups clashed over the installation of a statue of former Bharatpur ruler Maharaja Surajmal in a public square.

Authorities quickly responded by deploying police and Rajasthan Armed Constabulary (RAC) personnel to manage the situation. The confrontation occurred near the bus stand intersection, with both groups engaging in stone-pelting and slogan-raising against each other. One faction insisted that the gram sabha had approved the statue's placement, while the opposing group demanded its relocation from the public space.

Superintendent of Police Mridul Kachawa confirmed that the situation is under control. Nagaur Collector Arun Kumar Purohit assured that senior officers are present and efforts to resolve the matter are ongoing. The issue has been causing tensions in the village for nearly a year, exacerbated by the unauthorized installation of the statue on Monday night.

(With inputs from agencies.)