Lucknow: Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) leader Mayawati lashed out at Union Home Minister Amit Shah, demanding that he retract his remarks on Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, which she termed divisive and offensive. Addressing a press conference, Mayawati declared that such comments would not be forgiven by supporters of Babasaheb and predicted the BJP’s efforts to win Dalit support would fail.
“Babasaheb’s supporters will never forgive Amit Shah. The BJP’s strategy to sway Dalits with opportunistic gestures will not succeed,” Mayawati said.
Criticism of BJP and Congress
The BSP chief did not spare the Congress either, accusing it of disregarding Dr. Ambedkar’s legacy. “Babasaheb had warned Dalits against trusting the Congress. His warnings remain relevant as the Congress has consistently ignored his contributions, especially his central role in drafting the Constitution,” she remarked.
She accused both parties of exploiting Dalits for electoral gains, stating, “Neither the BJP nor the Congress genuinely honor Babasaheb. They only leverage Dalit votes for political advantage. The Bahujan Samaj Party is the only true advocate of Dalit rights and works tirelessly for their welfare.”
Opposition Uproar in Uttar Pradesh Assembly
The controversy spilled into the Uttar Pradesh Assembly, where members of the Samajwadi Party (SP) disrupted proceedings by waving pictures of Dr. Ambedkar and chanting slogans. Despite the commotion, the supplementary budget was passed before the house was adjourned indefinitely.
Finance Minister Suresh Khanna defended the BJP’s track record, citing the creation of “Panch Teerth” (five sacred sites) to honor Ambedkar. He accused the opposition of disrespecting Ambedkar by altering the Constitution’s Preamble.
Assembly Speaker Satish Mahana urged lawmakers to focus on constructive discussions and emphasized the importance of respecting Ambedkar’s legacy. “Baba Saheb is revered by all. Let us engage in meaningful debates that honor his contributions to the nation,” he said.
Mayawati’s Call for Unity
Mayawati called on the Dalit community to remain vigilant against what she described as “vacuous politics” by both national parties. “The Dalit community must stay united and not fall prey to hollow promises and schemes,” she asserted.
The Union Home Minister’s remarks have sparked widespread protests, with opposition leaders planning demonstrations across the state. The controversy underscores the continued political significance of Dr. Ambedkar’s legacy and its resonance among Dalit communities.
As political tempers rise, the debate over the legacy of one of India’s most iconic leaders highlights the enduring struggle for equality and social justice in the country.
