Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah, embroiled in controversy over his “Ambedkar is the fashion” comment during a Rajya Sabha debate, lashed out at the Congress on Wednesday, accusing it of twisting his words and undermining Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s legacy. Shah, asserting that his party follows the Dalit icon’s ideals, rejected calls for his resignation and hinted at legal action against the opposition for allegedly misrepresenting his statements.
Shah’s remarks came amidst mounting criticism, with Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge leading the charge, demanding his resignation and accusing the BJP of disrespecting Ambedkar.
“Congress Twisted My Words to Mislead People”
Speaking to reporters, Shah defended his statement, claiming, “The Congress has distorted the comment I made in Rajya Sabha. They have taken edited clips to spread lies. I urge the media to show my full statement. The BJP is the true follower of Ambedkar’s vision.”
Referring to the Congress’s history, he alleged, “During the debate on the Constitution’s 75th anniversary, it was proven that Congress has consistently disrespected Ambedkar and his ideals. They are now trying to deflect attention from their failures.”
Shah dismissed Kharge’s demand for his resignation, saying, “If my resignation will satisfy Kharge, I’ll give it. But the Congress will remain in opposition for 15 more years. My resignation won’t change that.”
Opposition Calls for Apology
The controversy erupted after Shah remarked during the debate, “It has become fashionable to say ‘Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar.’ If they took God’s name so many times, they’d secure a place in heaven.” This statement sparked outrage across the opposition, with Kharge accusing Shah of mocking Ambedkar and the Constitution.
Rahul Gandhi joined the protests, stating, “Babasaheb is the architect of our Constitution. His insult will not be tolerated. The Home Minister must apologise.”
Trinamool Congress MP Derek O’Brien filed a privilege motion against Shah, accusing him of insulting the Dalit leader. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee condemned the remarks as “casteist and anti-Dalit.”
Akhilesh Yadav and PDA Strategy
Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav linked Shah’s remarks to the BJP’s fear of the opposition’s rising popularity among marginalized communities. “Babasaheb is revered in every Dalit household. The BJP’s nervousness about our PDA (Progressive Democratic Alliance) strategy is evident in their repeated offensive remarks,” he said.
PM Modi Defends Shah
Prime Minister Narendra Modi backed Shah, accusing the Congress of attempting to erase Ambedkar’s legacy. Modi tweeted, “A party led by a single dynasty has repeatedly tried to undermine Ambedkar’s contributions. Congress cannot deny its history of sidelining SC/ST communities.”
He listed instances where Congress allegedly disrespected Ambedkar, including denying him the Bharat Ratna during his lifetime and actively campaigning against him in elections.
Meeting Amidst Controversy
Amid the heated exchanges, PM Modi and Shah met Kharge and Rahul Gandhi, reportedly to discuss the appointment of the National Human Rights Commission chief. Sources clarified that the meeting was unrelated to the Ambedkar controversy.
