Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi have accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of attempting to distract the public from Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s controversial comments about Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. The Congress leaders emphasized their commitment to safeguarding Ambedkar’s legacy and called for Shah’s resignation over the remarks, which they believe insulted the nation’s first law minister.
Kharge and Gandhi refuted claims by BJP leaders that Gandhi had pushed and injured two BJP MPs, instead accusing BJP members of physically obstructing Congress MPs, including Kharge. Gandhi condemned the BJP’s actions, stating that their continuous efforts to divert attention were aimed at erasing Ambedkar’s contributions and legacy. He criticized the BJP’s anti-Ambedkar stance and its attempts to block discussions, particularly regarding the allegations of corruption surrounding the Adani Group in the U.S.
During a press conference, Kharge described the incident, where BJP MPs allegedly used force to stop Congress MPs from entering Parliament, particularly during the peaceful protest near Ambedkar’s statue. He expressed outrage over the BJP’s actions and the environment of intimidation created by their MPs. Gandhi echoed this sentiment, calling for Shah’s resignation and reiterating the need for an apology over the disrespect shown to Ambedkar.
The controversy stemmed from Shah’s remarks made earlier in the week during a speech on the 75th anniversary of the Constitution. Shah had disparaged the Congress for frequently invoking Ambedkar’s name, suggesting that if they had mentioned God’s name as often, they would have earned a place in heaven. The BJP defended Shah, claiming that they misinterpreted his statement, but the opposition parties, including Congress, demanded accountability.
Kharge also took aim at the BJP’s broader agenda, referencing the party’s support for Adani and the alleged corruption involving Prime Minister Modi’s close associate. He expressed frustration that the BJP was deflecting attention from these pressing issues by engaging in distractions like the Ambedkar controversy.
In response to the growing tension, Kharge warned that the Congress would not tolerate the environment created by the BJP and announced plans for a nationwide movement. The Congress leaders also rejected the BJP’s narrative regarding former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and Ambedkar’s differences, calling it false and misleading.
 of attempting to distract the public from Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s controversial comments about Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. The Congress leaders emphasized their commitment to safeguarding Ambedkar's legacy and called for Shah’s resignation over the remarks, which they believe insulted the nation's first law minister.){kind=link}