Amit Shah’s Remarks on B.R. Ambedkar Spark Outrage, Opposition Calls Out Political Misstep

In India’s diverse religious landscape, Dalit communities have historically faced systemic exclusion from mainstream worship.

Unlike caste Hindus, who have a pantheon of 33 crore gods, Dalits have had to carve out a sacred space of their own. Their deities, rooted in history and human struggle, symbolize resilience and justice.

This journey has been a fight against centuries of denial, where temple doors were closed to them, and their faith was deemed blasphemous.

Today, these icons reflect a broader message: mutual respect and recognition of diverse devotional ideals.

This evolving social compact between Dalits and caste Hindus is a cornerstone of modern Indian society, urging respect without condescension or mockery.

However, any breach of this compact threatens to undo this delicate progress.

Controversy Over Amit Shah’s Remarks on Ambedkar

Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently found himself at the center of a political storm after remarks in the Rajya Sabha about Dr. BR Ambedkar.

Shah claimed that invoking Ambedkar’s name had become a “fashion” among Congress leaders, stating, “If they had taken God’s name so many times, they would have attained heaven in seven lifetimes.”

This statement, perceived as trivializing Ambedkar’s immense contributions, sparked outrage.

Congress leaders and other opposition parties accused Shah of disrespecting the architect of the Indian Constitution.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge demanded Shah’s resignation and a public apology, while protests erupted across Parliament.

Opposition’s Unified Front

The Opposition stood united in condemning Shah’s remarks, describing them as an insult to Ambedkar’s legacy.

During a debate commemorating 75 years of the Indian Constitution, leaders across party lines raised slogans and displayed photographs of Ambedkar.

Kharge, emphasizing Ambedkar’s role in empowering marginalized communities, said, “For millions like me, Babasaheb is no less than a god. He is a messiah for Dalits, tribals, and the oppressed.” Rahul Gandhi also weighed in, stating, “Those following Manusmriti would naturally be troubled by Ambedkar.”

TMC leader Derek O’Brien submitted a privilege notice against Shah in the Rajya Sabha, while Congress MP K Suresh moved an adjournment motion in the Lok Sabha.

Opposition leaders demanded Shah’s resignation and called on Prime Minister Modi to act swiftly to address the controversy.

BJP’s Defense and Counterclaims

The BJP countered the Opposition’s charges, defending Shah and accusing the Congress of distorting his remarks for political gain.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju argued, “Shah was highlighting Congress’s hypocrisy in misusing Ambedkar’s name while failing to honor his ideals.”

The BJP further accused the Congress of historically neglecting Ambedkar.

They pointed out that Congress had opposed Ambedkar’s return to Parliament and failed to confer the Bharat Ratna on him during his lifetime. The BJP claimed, “It is only PM Modi and the BJP that follow Ambedkar’s ideals.”

Broader Political Fallout

RJD Chief Lalu Prasad Yadav joined the chorus of criticism, stating, “Amit Shah has gone mad. He must have hatred for Babasaheb Ambedkar. We condemn this madness.” Yadav demanded Shah’s resignation, describing the remarks as disrespectful.

AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal also criticized Shah, asserting that Babasaheb’s contributions were unparalleled.

“For every child in this country, Babasaheb is no less than a god. His Constitution ensures justice and equality for all,” Kejriwal said.

Tejashwi Yadav, former Deputy CM of Bihar, accused the BJP and RSS of undermining national icons. “BJP earlier insulted Gandhi and Nehru, and now they are targeting Ambedkar. Babasaheb is our fashion, passion, and inspiration,” he said.

Ambedkar’s Legacy: A Political Flashpoint

This controversy underscores the enduring significance of Ambedkar’s vision and the tensions surrounding his legacy.

Ambedkar’s contributions to the Constitution and his advocacy for social justice remain deeply revered, especially among marginalized communities.

While the BJP claims to uphold Ambedkar’s ideals, critics argue that the party’s actions contradict this stance.

For the Congress and other opposition parties, defending Ambedkar’s legacy is not just a political strategy but a reaffirmation of his principles of equality and justice.

The fallout from Amit Shah’s remarks has reignited a national debate on respect for Ambedkar and the rights of marginalized communities.

As the BJP and Opposition trade accusations, the controversy highlights the political and cultural importance of Ambedkar’s ideals in contemporary India.