LucknowIn a major political development, the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) has announced a nationwide protest against Union Home Minister Amit Shah over his recent statement in Parliament about Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar. The party, led by Mayawati, has demanded an apology from Shah, stating that his remarks have deeply hurt the sentiments of Dalits, Bahujans, and other marginalized communities.
Mayawati, in a statement to the media, called for a peaceful protest on December 24, 2024, at district headquarters across the country. In her message, she emphasized that Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution, is revered as a deity by millions, and any disrespect towards him is intolerable.
Two days ago, Mayawati took to social media, posting on X (formerly Twitter), where she reiterated that an apology was imperative. “Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar, the author of the Constitution that champions the self-respect and human rights of Dalits and other deprived communities, is worshipped like a God. Disrespecting him wounds the hearts of millions,” she wrote.
She further accused Amit Shah of making statements that disregard the legacy of Ambedkar and said, “People from all communities and sections of society are angry and agitated by his words. Despite demands for an apology, no corrective action has been taken yet.”
In response to the lack of apology, the BSP has called for a peaceful dharna-demonstration on December 24 at all district headquarters across the nation. The party has assured that the protests will remain non-violent and are aimed at urging the government to show greater respect for Ambedkar’s contributions.
Mayawati also reminded other political parties, including Congress and BJP, to respect Ambedkar’s legacy. “If you cannot honor him, at least refrain from disrespecting him,” she asserted.
Highlighting Ambedkar’s lifelong struggle for the rights and self-respect of Dalits and Bahujans, Mayawati stated that he secured legal rights, including reservations, for these communities. She reiterated that ensuring the welfare and dignity of Ambedkar’s followers is the BSP’s primary commitment.
The party called upon supporters of Ambedkar from all communities to join the protest. “The legal and constitutional rights granted by Baba Saheb have given the marginalized communities a sense of dignity and empowerment, which must not be undermined by insensitive remarks,” Mayawati concluded.
This development follows similar protests and demands by the Congress and the Samajwadi Party (SP), who have also criticized Amit Shah for his comments. With BSP joining the fray, the issue has gained national attention, signaling increased political pressure on the ruling BJP.
