Tensions escalated in central India’s Chhattisgarh, as a furious crowd set fire to the offices of the District Collector and Police Captain.

The incident took place in Balodabazar district on June 10.

Visuals showed the building blazing with fire and black soot already covering the place.

According to reports the unrest was triggered by the demolition of the Jait Pillar, a revered symbol of faith for the Satnami community, which is the largest segment of the Scheduled Castes (SC) in the state.

The destruction of the Jait Pillar by unidentified individuals has deeply angered the Satnami community, prompting widespread protests.The pillar holds significant cultural and religious importance, and its demolition has been seen as a direct attack on the community’s heritage. What began as a peaceful protest quickly turned violent as emotions ran high. Protesters stormed the administrative offices, causing extensive damage and setting parts of the buildings on fire. Local authorities are working to restore order, but the situation remains volatile.

Government officials have condemned the act of vandalism against the Jait Pillar and have promised a thorough investigation to bring those responsible to justice. Meanwhile, leaders of the Satnami community are calling for calm and urging their members to protest peacefully while demanding swift action from the authorities.