Is the Country Governed by the Constitution or Vedas? Congress Responds to Rambhadracharya's SC/ST Remarks
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In response to Jagadguru Rambhadracharya's controversial statements on the SC/ST Act, Congress reiterates the supremacy of the Constitution over religious texts. This unfolding situation highlights the ongoing discussions around social justice and equality in India, emphasizing the rights of marginalized communities.
Key Takeaways
- Rambhadracharya's comments have sparked significant controversy.
- Congress emphasizes the importance of the Constitution over religious beliefs.
- Social justice and equality for marginalized communities remain pivotal issues.
- The SC/ST Act plays a crucial role in protecting the rights of these communities.
- Continued reservations are deemed necessary until true empowerment is achieved.
New Delhi, Nov 25 (NationPress) The remarks made by Jagadguru Rambhadracharya on Tuesday have ignited significant controversy as he argued for the repeal of the SC/ST Act, claiming that the Vedas do not reference Avarnas or Savarnas. In response, the Congress party emphasized that the nation is governed by the Constitution, not by any religious texts.
Congress MP Tariq Anwar stated to IANS: "Our nation operates under our Constitution; it is not influenced by the Vedas, the Quran, or the Bible. It is essential for them to comprehend this reality."
Ajay Rai, Congress' UP President, remarked: "Every individual in this nation possesses equal rights—whether they belong to SC/ST, belong to the forward or backward classes, or identify as Dalit, Adivasi, Hindu, or Muslim. Each person is entitled to respect and equality in their right to live."
Pawan Kumar Bansal, a prominent Congress leader, articulated: "We need not look back to Vedic eras. What must be recognized is the historical oppression faced by SCs and STs. Freedom should encompass all individuals, not a privileged few. Despite 70 years of independence, grave disparities and deprivations persist."
He added that the circumstances for these communities continue to be exceedingly challenging.
"We must uphold reservations until these groups achieve equal empowerment. The pursuit of social justice is crucial. Rambhadracharya's statements disregard their rights. Any responsible administration will not endorse such a viewpoint," he conveyed to IANS.
Earlier, Rambhadracharya stated: "The SC/ST Act should be abolished. The Vedas do not mention Avarnas or Savarnas; this caste-based system has been established by political leaders... I advocate for the elimination of caste-based reservations."
The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, was implemented to safeguard individuals from these communities against atrocities. It establishes special courts for prosecuting such offenses, stipulates penalties, and includes measures for the support and rehabilitation of victims.
This Act also obligates public officials to fulfill their responsibilities towards SC/ST communities.
Point of View
It is crucial to highlight that while public figures may voice opinions based on religious texts, the fundamental rights enshrined in our Constitution must guide our nation. The discourse surrounding SC/ST rights continues to be vital for achieving true equality in society.
NationPress
25/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Rambhadracharya's statement regarding the SC/ST Act?
Rambhadracharya suggested that the SC/ST Act should be repealed, arguing that the Vedas do not mention Avarnas or Savarnas.
How did Congress respond to Rambhadracharya's remarks?
Congress responded by emphasizing that the country operates under the Constitution, not religious texts, and highlighted the importance of equal rights for all citizens.
What is the purpose of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act?
The SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, enacted in 1989, aims to prevent atrocities against Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes and provides for special courts to address such offenses.
