Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi and Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray strongly criticized Union Home Minister Amit Shah and the BJP for remarks made about Dr. BR Ambedkar during a recent parliamentary session.
Key Highlights
Rahul Gandhi’s Criticism:
- Accused BJP of being “against Ambedkar ji and his ideology.”
- Alleged that the BJP seeks to “finish the Constitution” and undo the work of BR Ambedkar.
- Emphasized, “The entire country knows this. They were saying from the beginning that they would change the Constitution.”
Uddhav Thackeray’s Response:
- Condemned Shah’s comments as “insolent and disrespectful” toward Ambedkar.
- Questioned whether BJP allies, such as Chandrababu Naidu, Nitish Kumar, Ajit Pawar, and Ramdas Athawale, would continue to support the BJP after Shah’s remarks.
- Declared Ambedkar as a figure “not bound by any side” and criticized the BJP for “insulting someone who gave us the Constitution.”
Amit Shah’s Statement:
- Shah remarked in Parliament that taking Ambedkar’s name had become a “fashion” for Congress.
- He added, “If they had taken the name of God as many times, they would have been in heaven for seven lives.”
BJP’s Defense
PM Modi’s Comments:
- Defended Amit Shah, asserting that Shah had “exposed Congress’ dark history of insulting Ambedkar.”
- Accused Congress of indulging in “theatrics” after being “stung and stunned” by the facts Shah presented.
- Highlighted Congress’ alleged mistreatment of Ambedkar:
- Defeating Ambedkar in elections twice.
- Pandit Nehru campaigning against him.
- Denying Ambedkar a Bharat Ratna.
- Excluding his portrait from Parliament’s Central Hall.
- Criticized Congress for neglecting SC/ST communities during their tenure in power.
Broader Implications
The exchange underscores the recurring political battle over Ambedkar’s legacy and its appropriation in Indian politics. While opposition parties accused the BJP of disrespecting Ambedkar and his contributions, the BJP turned the criticism on Congress, accusing it of a history of ignoring marginalized communities and failing to honor Ambedkar.
The remarks have added to tensions in Parliament, with protests and walkouts further amplifying the debate. Ambedkar’s legacy remains a focal point in political narratives, symbolizing empowerment for marginalized communities and a touchstone for debates on constitutional values.