New Delhi– A political uproar erupted in the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday as the Congress staged a walkout over BJP MP Radha Mohan Das Agarwal’s remarks concerning the removal of 22 illustrations from the original Constitution without parliamentary approval. The controversy escalated after Opposition Leader Mallikarjun Kharge accused the BJP of attempting to distort history and disrespect the Constitution’s drafters, particularly Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.
During Zero Hour, Mr. Agarwal raised concerns that the illustrations, originally designed by renowned artist Nandalal Bose, included depictions of figures such as Lord Ram, Lord Krishna, Lord Buddha, and Lord Mahavir, alongside national icons like Mahatma Gandhi, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, and Rani Lakshmi Bai. He alleged that their removal was unconstitutional and politically motivated.
In response, Mr. Kharge condemned the BJP for what he termed a deliberate attempt to stir controversy. “They are unnecessarily raising this issue to malign Ambedkar’s Constitution. These changes were introduced by consensus, and now they are twisting history for political gain,” he asserted.
Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar supported Mr. Agarwal’s concerns and directed the government to ensure that only the original version of the Constitution is printed and circulated. He further stated that any unauthorized modifications by other institutions, including the judiciary, would not be accepted by the House.
Leader of the House J.P. Nadda criticized the Congress for politicizing the matter, insisting that Mr. Agarwal’s statement did not target Dr. Ambedkar. “The Congress is falsely alleging an attempt to defame Ambedkar. Their comments should be expunged,” he demanded.
Following Mr. Nadda’s remarks, the Congress walked out of the House in protest. Expressing his disappointment, Mr. Dhankhar remarked, “I find no rational ground for this walkout. It is, in fact, an insult to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. The Constitution signed by our founding fathers must be preserved in its authentic form.”
Promoting such changes to the Constitution is highly controversial, as it risks hurting the sentiments of various communities and undermines the principles of secularism. The removal or alteration of historical illustrations can be perceived as an attempt to impose a particular ideological narrative, which goes against the inclusive and diverse spirit of the Constitution. In a secular democracy, any modifications to national symbols or documents should be approached with caution and consensus to ensure that they do not alienate or offend any section of society.
The issue has sparked a heated debate, with the Opposition accusing the BJP of rewriting history while the ruling party insists on restoring the Constitution’s original illustrations. The matter is likely to remain a contentious point in the ongoing Budget Session.
