Union Minister Kiren Rijiju launched a scathing critique of Congress leader Sam Pitroda, accusing him of questioning the role of BR Ambedkar in drafting India’s Constitution through a recent post on X (formerly Twitter). Rijiju stated that such remarks reflect the Congress party’s longstanding disregard and disrespect for Ambedkar’s contributions to the nation. He alleged that the Congress has a history of undermining Ambedkar’s legacy and has no moral authority to claim association with the architect of India’s Constitution. Rijiju pointed out that there has been a consistent pattern of actions and statements by Congress that diminish Ambedkar’s significance, asserting that the opposition party has failed to genuinely honor the man whose work laid the foundation of modern Indian democracy.

In addition, Rijiju condemned ongoing opposition-led protests, alleging that they are part of a larger conspiracy by Congress to diminish Ambedkar’s stature in Indian history. He called out the party for what he described as hypocrisy and double standards, questioning their commitment to Ambedkar’s ideals. Drawing attention to his own political journey, Rijiju noted that he is the first Buddhist to hold the position of Law Minister in India in 71 years, a milestone he attributed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s inclusive leadership. He added that Modi’s decision to appoint him to “Ambedkar’s chair” as Law Minister symbolizes the government’s genuine commitment to honoring Ambedkar’s contributions and vision. Rijiju also accused the Congress of editing and manipulating a clip of Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s speech about Ambedkar to distort its content and mislead the public. He further challenged the Congress to name any concrete actions it has taken to uphold or promote Ambedkar’s vision and legacy, contrasting it with the Modi government’s numerous efforts to celebrate and institutionalize Ambedkar’s contributions.

Highlighting the significance of his current role and those of his colleagues, Rijiju mentioned that Ministers Arjun Meghwal and L Murugan, who also hold prominent positions in the government, share a similar background of advocacy for marginalized communities, aligning with Ambedkar’s vision for social justice. Rijiju emphasized that the government’s initiatives demonstrate a meaningful commitment to empowering underrepresented groups, whereas the Congress party’s actions, in his view, reveal a lack of genuine respect for Ambedkar’s legacy. Rijiju’s remarks come amidst heightened tensions between the ruling BJP and the opposition over claims regarding Ambedkar’s role in shaping India’s Constitution and his enduring legacy. The minister’s statements reflect an intensifying political battle centered on the legacy of one of India’s most revered leaders, with both sides vying to establish themselves as the true champions of his vision for an inclusive and equitable India.

Disclaimer: This Image is taken from The Hawk.