Why are Congress and BJP Fighting Over Ambedkar?

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Why are Congress and BJP Fighting Over Ambedkar?

Synopsis

The ongoing feud between Congress and BJP in Madhya Pradesh over B. R. Ambedkar's legacy has ignited a heated debate. Both parties accuse one another of disrespecting the architect of the Constitution, revealing deep political divides that could impact future elections. What does this mean for the legacy of Ambedkar in Indian politics?

Key Takeaways

  • Congress and BJP are in a heated dispute over Ambedkar's legacy.
  • The installation of Ambedkar's statue has become a flashpoint for political tensions.
  • Both parties are leveraging history to garner support.
  • Public perception of Ambedkar's contributions is crucial in shaping political narratives.
  • Respectful dialogue around historical figures is essential for democracy.

Bhopal, June 17 (NationPress) The Opposition Congress in Madhya Pradesh and the ruling BJP clashed once more over B. R. Ambedkar, each party accusing the other of disrespecting the architect of the Constitution.

The latest round of accusations sparked over the installation of Ambedkar's statue at the premises of the Gwalior bench of the Madhya Pradesh High Court.

A group of senior Congress leaders, including former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Digvijaya Singh and the party's in-charge for the state, Harish Choudhary, held a press conference on Tuesday where they accused the RSS and BJP of obstructing the statue's installation.

Congress leaders claimed that the RSS and BJP were attempting to undermine Ambedkar's vital role as the architect of the Constitution.

During the press briefing, Congress showcased posters and hoardings recently displayed in Gwalior, alleging that the BJP was trying to elevate B.N. Rau, a former civil servant and constitutional advisor to the Constituent Assembly.

Digvijaya Singh pointed out that B.N. Rau was merely an advisor, not a member of the Constituent Assembly, asserting that it was erroneous to diminish Ambedkar's contributions.

He added, 'The RSS had previously burned copies of the Constitution and opposed the Tricolor, and now they are against the installation of Babasaheb's statue and his legacy.'

Congress general secretary and Madhya Pradesh in-charge Harish Chaudhary called it unfortunate that a 'controversy' was being stirred regarding the installation of Ambedkar's statue in the High Court premises in Gwalior.

'There is a well-coordinated conspiracy questioning the contributions of the maker of the Constitution. Such controversies are originating from the Nagpur headquarters of the RSS,' he alleged.

In response to the Congress' claims, Madhya Pradesh BJP chief V. D. Sharma asserted that Nehru had always belittled Ambedkar, a fact well-known to the Indian populace.

Sharma stated that the RSS is the world's largest social organization and prioritizes national security.

'The RSS, devoted to the nation, does not need validation from the Congress. The people of India are aware of how the Nehru family disrespected Ambedkar,' Sharma claimed during a press conference at the BJP office in Bhopal.

Point of View

It's crucial to recognize the significance of B. R. Ambedkar's contributions to India's constitutional framework. This ongoing political conflict illustrates the polarized views surrounding his legacy, reflecting broader ideological disputes in our society. The need for respectful discourse about such pivotal figures is paramount for the health of our democracy.
NationPress
17/06/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current controversy regarding Ambedkar's statue?
The controversy revolves around accusations between Congress and BJP over disrespecting Ambedkar's legacy during the installation of his statue at the High Court in Gwalior.
Who are the key political figures involved?
Key figures include Congress leaders Digvijaya Singh and Harish Choudhary, and BJP chief V. D. Sharma.
What are Congress's main allegations against BJP?
Congress alleges that BJP and RSS are trying to undermine Ambedkar's contributions and obstruct the statue's installation.
How did BJP respond to these allegations?
BJP responded by accusing Congress, particularly Nehru, of historically disrespecting Ambedkar.
Why is Ambedkar's legacy significant?
Ambedkar is revered as the principal architect of the Indian Constitution, symbolizing equality and social justice.