Haveri (Karnataka) [India]: Karnataka’s former Chief Minister and BJP MP Basavaraj Bommai said that the Congress didn’t have the moral right to invoke BR Ambedkar’s name, as they had opposed him when he aimed to implement reservation in Parliament, according to a press release.
Speaking at a BJP workers’ meeting organized in Shiggaon city of Haveri district on Tuesday, he said “When Ambedkar proposed reservation, the Congress leaders of that time did not agree to it. It was only after discussions with Mahatma Gandhi and the Pune Pact that reservation was implemented. What is the purpose of this freedom if the oppressed communities of this country do not receive equality and justice?”
He said that even when the reservation was brought into effect, it wasn’t implemented properly due to inadequate policies. Congress opposed Ambedkar by fielding S.J. Patil against him, fearing that Ambedkar would implement reservations if elected to Parliament.
Now, they still mention Ambedkar and the Constitution. When Ambedkar passed away, Congress didn’t even provide a place for his funeral in Delhi, so they have no moral right to invoke his name.
Bommai also referenced Babu Jagjivan Ram, calling him an undefeated leader who initiated the Green Revolution and strengthened the Indian army as Defence Minister. Despite his contributions, Congress did not allow him to be re-elected.
“Indira Gandhi made Babu Jagjivan Ram the Congress president, displayed his large photo, and won the elections. Everyone thought he would become Prime Minister, but Indira Gandhi took the position after the election,” he said.
“Support those who work for you. I have built more Ambedkar Bhavans and installed statues in my constituency than in the constituencies of G Parameshwara or HC Mahadevappa. I have done this out of respect for Dr Ambedkar”.
The MP accused state Congress leaders of misappropriating around Rs. 190 crores meant for the Valmiki Corporation, causing injustice to that community. In fact, no funds were released for anyone from the Ambedkar and Babu Jagjivan Ram Development Corporation by the incumbent government.
Bommai highlighted that the fight for increasing SC/ST reservation had been ongoing for a long time.
“I was advised not to stir the beehive, but I did it anyway. Even if I get stung, I will ensure justice for the community,” he said, noting that his increase of reservation allowed about 2,500 additional engineering seats and more than 400 medical seats, which made him as happy as if his own children had secured these seats.
“This is the path we have walked, living closely with the community like sandalwood mixed in water. I am ready to dedicate my life to this cause. Power is not permanent, but I have made decisions with a clear conscience. With your support, I was able to make decisions that benefited the SC/ST community across the state,” Bommai stated.
He urged voters to question any minister or CM about the development in their constituency and asked the Dalit community to vote for Bharat Bommai with their conscience, without being swayed by others’ words.
Former Deputy CM and MP Govind Karjol and many local leaders were also present at the meeting.