Phagwara remains tense after clash over Ambedkar poster

Punjab Police on Saturday remained on high alert in Phagwara town following a clash between the Hindu and Dalit groups over a poster of Babasaheb B.R. Ambedkar.

Tension prevailed in the industrial town, around 130 km from here, following the clash that started late on Friday over the putting up of the Ambedkar's poster at the Goal Chowk.

Informed sources in the police said that shots were allegedly fired during the clash, which also witnessed some stone pelting.

Taking serious note of the clash between the Dalits and "upper caste men", Chief Minister Amarinder Singh said: "Would not spare the culprits.

"Will not allow Punjab's peace to be destroyed at any cost. My government will bear all expenses for treatment of all those injured in the incident."

Trouble arose on the eve of Ambedkar Jayanti when one group tried to put up the poster at the crossing which was opposed by the other.

Shiv Sena leader Rajesh Palta was beaten up allegedly by the Dalits during the clash.

Senior police personnel along with additional forces have been deployed in the town following the clash.

--IANS

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