Gwalior witnessed a significant protest by the Bajrang Dal on October 6, 2024, just before the highly anticipated T20 match between India and Bangladesh. The protestors waved black flags as the Bangladesh cricket team passed through Mela Ground, expressing their dissent against what they perceive as atrocities committed against Hindus in Bangladesh following the recent political turmoil that led to the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government in August.
Background of the Protests
The protests stem from ongoing tensions regarding the treatment of Hindus in Bangladesh.
Bajrang Dal leaders, including Madhya Bharat vice president Pappu Verma, voiced their concerns about the treatment of the Hindu community, asserting that the protests were a reflection of hurt sentiments.
“The way Hindus have been treated in Bangladesh has hurt the sentiments of all of us. Because of such incidents, we protested against Bangladesh here in the afternoon,” Verma stated.
This situation highlights the intersection of sports and socio-political issues, as cricket, a beloved sport in both countries, often becomes a platform for broader national sentiments.
The district administration had issued prohibitory orders earlier to maintain peace and prevent such demonstrations. Despite this, the protestors gathered, leading to the detention of several individuals by the police, who deployed over 2,500 personnel to ensure law and order during the match.
Security Measures in Place
In response to the protests, heavy police presence surrounded the Madhavrao Scindia Stadium, where the match was scheduled.
Only ticket holders were allowed past certain checkpoints, demonstrating the authorities’ commitment to maintaining safety during the event.
Furthermore, local shops in the Lashkar area reportedly closed in solidarity with the protesters, showcasing the deep-rooted sentiments surrounding this issue.
The confrontation between sports and political protests is not new in India, but the high-profile nature of the T20I has amplified attention on this particular protest.
As fans gather to support their teams, the backdrop of political unrest casts a shadow over what should be a celebration of cricket.
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