In a fierce political exchange, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a sharp attack on the Congress party, accusing it of systematically undermining Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s legacy while attempting to mislead the nation. The controversy erupted after Home Minister Amit Shah’s remarks on Ambedkar during a parliamentary debate commemorating the Constitution’s 75th anniversary.
Amit Shah, addressing the session on Tuesday, had remarked that invoking Ambedkar’s name had become a “fashion” for some, asserting, “If his name were chanted as often as it is politically exploited, one would earn salvation for seven lifetimes.” These comments sparked outrage among opposition parties, including Congress and its allies, who staged protests demanding an apology.
Prime Minister Modi, coming to Shah’s defense, took to social media to counter Congress’s criticism. He stated, “Congress and its ecosystem believe their malicious lies can hide decades of their misdeeds, especially their disrespect toward Dr. Ambedkar. They are mistaken. The nation has repeatedly witnessed how one family-led party played every dirty trick to erase Ambedkar’s legacy and insult the SC/ST communities.”
Highlighting his government’s commitment to preserving Ambedkar’s values, Modi shared a photo from his early days in BJP, emphasizing his lifelong respect for Ambedkar’s principles. He contrasted this with Congress’s alleged opportunistic use of Ambedkar’s name for narrow political gains, stating that for him, Ambedkar’s teachings were a personal mission, not a tool for convenience.
Meanwhile, Congress and opposition leaders intensified their criticism of Shah’s remarks. On Wednesday, a protest was held near the ‘Makar Dwar’ entrance of Parliament, with leaders like Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra participating. Holding pictures of Ambedkar, they chanted slogans such as “Jay Bhim” and “Babasaheb ka apmaan, nahi sahega Hindustan” (India won’t tolerate the insult of Babasaheb). The opposition demanded an immediate apology from the Home Minister.
As the row escalates, the political narrative around Ambedkar’s legacy is once again in sharp focus. The BJP, led by Modi, is positioning itself as the true custodian of Ambedkar’s ideals, challenging the Congress to reconcile with its historical approach to one of India’s most revered leaders.
