New Delhi: The Congress party has called for the resignation of Home Minister Amit Shah following remarks made in the Rajya Sabha that they allegedly insulted Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and the Constitution, reports The Times of India.
During a press briefing at Parliament, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge criticised Shah for his statement, which suggested that repeatedly invoking Ambedkar’s name had become a “fashion” and likened it to taking God’s name to attain heaven.
Kharge stated, “This insult to Babasaheb Ambedkar is unacceptable. Amit Shah’s words show the BJP’s disregard for Dalit contributions and the principles of the Constitution. We demand his resignation.” He further accused Shah of displaying the BJP’s ideology, which he claimed undermines social justice and democracy.
In a speech on Tuesday, Shah remarked, “Abhi ek fashion ho gaya hai – Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar. Itna naam agar bhagwan ka lete to saat janmon tak swarg mil jata.” (It has become a fashion to keep repeating Ambedkar’s name. If they took God’s name as many times, they would have achieved heaven in seven lifetimes.)
The comments sparked outrage among Congress leaders and their allies. Rahul Gandhi linked Shah’s remarks to the BJP and RSS’s ideological alignment with Manusmriti and not the egalitarian values of Ambedkar. Congress spokesperson Jairam Ramesh also criticised the speech, sharing excerpts on social media.
Congress leader Dangi added, “This is an insult not only to Babasaheb but also to the Dalit and marginalised communities of India. Amit Shah should apologise publicly and resign from his post.”
The controversy has reignited debates on the BJP’s stance toward Ambedkar’s legacy and caste issues in the country. The Congress has intensified its demands, stating that the BJP’s comments reveal their deep-seated prejudice against marginalised communities.
The issue remains unresolved as political tensions rise, with Congress vowing to continue their protest until action is taken.
