Umesh Kamble
Taluka representative Bhadravati
The magnificent Buddha statue on the top of the historic Vijjasan Buddha Cave in Bhadravati was smashed by Dhammadveshtya Samaj Kantaks on the night of 31st December.
As soon as the Buddhist brothers, who were ready to celebrate Bhima Koregaon Shaurya Day on January 1, heard this news, they all rushed to the scene. Gradually, the Buddhist community gathered in the Buddha cave area in thousands.
The police administration, which had already arrived at the scene, saw the destruction of the huge statue of Tathagata Lord Buddha, which was covered with a cloth, and a wave of anger spread in the community, and from there, Buddhist community members started marching and Bhadravati bandh.
Challenging the Bhadravati Bandh from the historic Vijjasan Buddha Cave, the march came to the Nagpur – Chandrapur highway. A chakka jam movement was held there. A statement of demands was submitted by the Buddhist community to Tehsildar Bhadravati.
As soon as the news of this incident was heard, the Bhikkhu Sangha entered Bhadravati. After learning about the entire incident, the Bhikkhu Sangh started a sit-in at the top of the cave at the site of the incident. Along with the Bhikkhu Sangha, hundreds of devotees participated in the sit-in protest.
Major Demands
1) Social activists who vandalize idols should be found within 24 hours and strict action should be taken.
2) Another Buddha statue should be installed at the place of the Buddha statue that was broken.
3) CCTV cameras should be installed in Buddha Cave area.
4) Proper arrangement of light should be done in the area.
5) Night watchman should be arranged.
The movement by the Buddhist community will continue till the demands etc. are fulfilled.
