New Delhi, December 18: Congress president and Rajya Sabha Leader of Opposition (LoP) Mallikarjun Kharge has strongly criticised Union Home Minister Amit Shah's recent remarks on Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, demanding a public apology. Kharge also urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to sack Shah immediately if he genuinely respects Ambedkar's legacy.
Addressing a press conference in the national capital, Kharge said, “Amit Shah has no right to remain in the cabinet. If PM Modi truly has faith in Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, Shah should be removed by midnight. Otherwise, protests will erupt as people are ready to fight for Ambedkar’s honour.”
Kharge condemned the BJP-led NDA government, accusing them of undermining the Constitution. He stated, “It is unfortunate that a Dalit icon like Babasaheb, who deserves utmost reverence, has been insulted. This proves that the BJP does not believe in the principles of the Constitution.”
Kharge also took aim at PM Modi’s support for Shah, referencing a series of tweets defending the Home Minister’s remarks. “Why did PM Modi make 6-7 tweets to defend Amit Shah? It’s clear they support each other’s wrongdoings,” he said.
The Congress leader’s remarks come amidst heightened political tensions, with Kharge positioning the issue as a matter of national importance, asserting that Shah’s removal would demonstrate genuine respect for Ambedkar and the Constitution.
The controversy erupted when Amit Shah, speaking during a debate on the Constitution in the Rajya Sabha, said: "Abhi ek fashion ho gaya hai - Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar. Itna naam agar bhagwan ka lete to saat janmon tak swarg mil jata" (It has become a fashion to say Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar. If they had taken God's name so many times, they would have got a place in heaven).
