Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi leader Prakash Ambedkar led tributes at the Koregaon Bhima 'Jay Stambh' on its 208th anniversary. The event, commemorating the 1818 battle, saw an estimated seven lakh visitors, primarily Ambedkarites. Authorities implemented extensive security measures, including police deployment and surveillance, to ensure a peaceful commemoration, a contrast to the violence during the 200th anniversary in 2018. Officials praised the coordination that facilitated the large, peaceful gathering.