Republic Day 2019: Dalit associations create ruckus, allege insult to Ambedkar

Devara Hipparagi: Various Dalit associations' members created a ruckus at Devara Hipparagi in Vijayapura district, Karnataka, alleging insult to the father of the Indian Constitution, BR Ambedkar. They alleged that Ambedkar's statue was not garlanded. The incident happened at the Government Kannada Boys School in Devara Hipparagi. MLA Somanagouda Patil of Sasanur was presiding over the function. The associations' members shouted slogans against the MLA. His efforts in trying to convince protesters went in vain and they started throwing chairs as the MLA left in a hurry. More than 10 Dalit members were arrested by the police. Following the arrest, Dalit associations' members gathered in front of the police station demanding their release.