Amit Shah Accuses Congress of Twisting His Words, Sparks Controversy Over Anti-Ambedkar Claims

In a press conference, Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge criticized Amit Shah's remark about "Ambedkar being the fashion," highlighting the insensitivity of such comments. Kharge emphasized the significance of Dr. Ambedkar's legacy in contemporary politics.

P24 News Media

December 18, 2024

1 minute

Amit Shah Accuses Congress of Twisting His Words, Sparks Controversy Over Anti-Ambedkar Claims

India

In a heated exchange within the halls of the Indian Parliament, Home Minister Amit Shah became the focal point of a Congress-led backlash following his controversial remark regarding Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, claiming that “Ambedkar is the fashion.” This statement set off a storm of accusations, with Shah responding defiantly by labeling his political adversaries as “anti-Ambedkar” and “anti-Constitution,” while also asserting that they were disseminating falsehoods about his words.

As a significant figure within the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and a close ally of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Amit Shah stood firm against the onslaught of criticism. He accused the Congress party of manipulating facts and failing to respect the foundational principles laid out in the Constitution. "They have taken my comments from the Rajya Sabha out of context. They have even gone so far as to edit speeches by Modiji," Shah explained to the media, urging for his complete statement to be shared in order to set the record straight. He expressed pride in being part of a political party that upholds Ambedkar's ideals.

Amit Shah lashed out at the Congress, alleging that its leaders had disrespected not only the military but also women, and had previously contributed to the nation's fragmentation, paving the way for foreign influence. He reiterated that during discussions commemorating the 75th anniversary of the Constitution, it was evident that it was indeed the Congress party that had historically disrespected Ambedkar's contributions.

In response to calls for his resignation, Shah declared his intention to remain in his role, countering Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge's demand. "If it brings him happiness, I can resign, but that won't resolve his issues. He will still be in opposition for the next 15 years," Shah asserted, hinting at the Congress party's struggles to regain power.

The BJP is reportedly contemplating various legal avenues to address the misrepresentation of Shah's remarks by the Congress during the ongoing parliamentary session. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Modi also took to social media, defending Shah amidst the fierce backlash. He stated that if the Congress believed that spreading malicious lies could overshadow their own past misdeeds, particularly in relation to their treatment of Dr. Ambedkar, they were gravely mistaken.

In a press briefing just hours before Shah's statements, Kharge had delivered a scathing critique of both Shah and the Prime Minister. He posited that if Modi held any genuine respect for Ambedkar, he would dismiss Shah from his cabinet, criticizing the PM for instead supporting his remarks. This exchange highlighted the growing rift between the ruling and opposition parties, with the statement in question being made by Shah during his closing comments in the Rajya Sabha debate, where he sarcastically suggested that the frequency with which the opposition invokes Ambedkar is akin to seeking divine approval.

The remark ignited a strong reaction from the Congress and other opposition parties, with Kharge emphasizing that such comments showcased the BJP's fundamental disregard for Ambedkar and his legacy. Prominent Congress figures, including Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, expressed their outrage, demanding an apology from Shah.

Voices of dissent were not limited to the Congress party. Other political factions, such as the Samajwadi Party, weighed in, asserting that Shah's comments indicated the BJP's trepidation concerning the Dalit struggle for rights and justice. Akhilesh Yadav articulated that Ambedkar holds a revered place in many households and communities across India, suggesting that the BJP's remarks reflect a broader insecurity regarding these ongoing efforts.

The Trinamool Congress, led by Mamata Banerjee, also joined the fray, accusing Shah of exhibiting a casteist mindset and disrespecting millions who look up to Ambedkar. In a politically charged atmosphere, it was reported that Modi and Shah engaged in discussions with Gandhi and Kharge, albeit with no direct connection to the current tensions surrounding Shah's comments, as they focused on appointing the upcoming head of the National Human Rights Commission.