BSP chief Mayawati has criticized Union Home Minister Amit Shah for his recent comments about Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the architect of India’s Constitution. She stated that Shah’s remarks have deeply offended people across the country and called for an apology.
In a series of posts on X, Mayawati emphasized that many revere Dr. Ambedkar as a deity for his contributions to the rights and dignity of Dalits and marginalized communities. She expressed that Shah’s disrespect towards Ambedkar has hurt the sentiments of the people.
Mayawati demanded that Shah retract his statement and apologize. She noted that people from all sections of society are agitated by his words in Parliament regarding such a great man. She further stated that the BSP has demanded Shah to take back his statement and repent, which has not been done till now.
In response to Shah’s remarks, Mayawati announced that the BSP will hold a nationwide peaceful protest on December 24. She stated that if they do not meet the demand for an apology, the party will raise its voice across the country. On that day, the party will hold a complete peaceful dharna-demonstration at all district headquarters across the country.
Mayawati reiterated her party’s dedication to preserving the legacy of Dr. Ambedkar, who fought for the rights of Dalits and Bahujans, securing legal protections including reservations. She remarked that if Congress, BJP, etc., cannot respect Baba Saheb from their heart, then they should not disrespect him either. She added that the day SC, ST, and OBC classes got legal rights in the Constitution due to Baba Saheb, they also got heaven for seven lives.
The controversy began when Amit Shah made a statement in the Rajya Sabha, saying, “If they (opposition) had taken the name of God so many times instead of Ambedkar, they would have got heaven for seven lives.” This remark has sparked protests in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, leading to their adjournment. Shah later accused Congress of distorting his words at a press briefing.
Following Shah’s remarks, members of the INDIA alliance, led by Rahul Gandhi, protested in the Parliament complex, demanding an apology and Shah’s resignation. A scuffle broke out during the protest, resulting in injuries to two BJP MPs, Pratap Sarangi and Mukesh Rajput. Both sides accused each other of pushing their members. The Delhi police have filed an FIR against Rahul Gandhi regarding the incident.
Mayawati’s call for a nationwide protest reflects the widespread discontent over Shah’s remarks and the ongoing debate about respecting the legacy of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.
