Home Minister Amit Shah's recent statement in Rajya Sabha about mentioning Ambedkar's name too many times has sparked controversy. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh responded by highlighting how RSS and BJP leaders have a hatred towards Ambedkar. Historical evidence and analysis show that the right wing and factions within the Congress were the ones who opposed Ambedkar, and even burnt effigies of him and Nehru. Ambedkar himself resigned as Law Minister due to frustration with Nehru for not passing the Hindu Code Bill, which aimed to reform societal inequalities.
The Ambedkar-RSS Controversy: A Historical Perspective
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution, has been a revered figure in Indian society. However, his legacy has often been the subject of controversy, particularly in the context of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
Background
Ambedkar was a staunch advocate for the rights of Dalits (formerly known as "untouchables"). His work in shaping the Constitution included drafting several provisions aimed at abolishing caste-based discrimination. The RSS, on the other hand, has been criticized for its alleged support of a hierarchical caste system.
Recent Controversy
In April 2023, Home Minister Amit Shah sparked controversy when he suggested in the Rajya Sabha that Ambedkar's name was being mentioned too many times. His statement was met with criticism from Congress leader Jairam Ramesh, who accused the RSS and BJP of harboring a hatred towards Ambedkar.
Historical Evidence
Historical evidence suggests that the RSS has indeed been critical of Ambedkar. In the 1930s and 1940s, RSS leaders made several derogatory remarks about Ambedkar and his work. In 1947, RSS volunteers allegedly burnt effigies of Ambedkar and Nehru.
Within the Congress, there were also factions that opposed Ambedkar. In 1951, Ambedkar resigned as Law Minister due to frustration with then-Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru's reluctance to pass the Hindu Code Bill, which aimed to reform societal inequalities.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
1. Why did Ambedkar resign as Law Minister? A: Ambedkar resigned due to frustration with Nehru's failure to pass the Hindu Code Bill.
2. What was the RSS's view of Ambedkar? A: The RSS was generally critical of Ambedkar, accusing him of being divisive and anti-Hindu.
3. What did Amit Shah say that sparked controversy? A: Shah suggested that Ambedkar's name was being mentioned too often in Parliament.
4. How did Jairam Ramesh respond to Shah's statement? A: Ramesh accused the RSS and BJP of harboring a hatred towards Ambedkar.
5. What is the significance of this controversy? A: The controversy highlights the ongoing debates about Ambedkar's legacy and the role of caste in Indian society.
Conclusion
The Ambedkar-RSS controversy is a complex historical issue that continues to resonate in contemporary Indian politics. Understanding the historical context is crucial for comprehending the significance and implications of current events related to Ambedkar's legacy.
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