Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath accused the Congress of harboring an anti-Ambedkar mindset and engaging in divisive politics. Speaking to journalists at his official residence, the Chief Minister launched a sharp critique against Congress and other political parties, particularly the Samajwadi Party (SP), for allegedly disrespecting Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s legacy.
“The Congress has a history of depriving Dalits of their rights. Jawaharlal Nehru opposed Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s inclusion in the Constituent Assembly and worked to defeat him in elections,” CM Yogi alleged. He added that Congress not only sidelined Dr. Ambedkar during his lifetime but also refused to honor him with a memorial after his demise.
Recalling incidents from the UPA era, CM Yogi highlighted the controversy surrounding a caricature of Nehru whipping Dr. Ambedkar’s portrait, which had prompted an apology from then HRD Minister Kapil Sibal. He also pointed to Dr. Ambedkar’s resignation from the Nehru cabinet, accusing Congress of prioritizing Muslim appeasement over Dalit welfare.
The Chief Minister praised Dr. Ambedkar as a visionary who overcame social barriers to make significant contributions to law, economics, and nation-building. “Dr. Ambedkar’s work illuminated India’s path forward, and his dedication remains an inspiration for generations,” CM Yogi stated.
Turning his attention to the Samajwadi Party, CM Yogi alleged that the SP’s history mirrors that of Congress in neglecting Dr. Ambedkar. He claimed that SP leaders removed Dr. Ambedkar’s name from institutions in Kannauj and Saharanpur, accusing them of using similar tactics to create confusion over BJP policies.
“The Congress and SP have a history of misleading the public. Both parties need to apologize to the nation for their actions,” CM Yogi demanded, asserting that the public has consistently rejected their politics of appeasement and division. Highlighting BJP’s initiatives, the Chief Minister said the party draws inspiration from Dr. Ambedkar’s principles. He lauded the efforts of PM Narendra Modi’s government to uplift marginalized communities through welfare schemes such as the Swachh Bharat Mission, PM Awas Yojana, and Ayushman Bharat. He also noted the establishment of “Panch Teerth” sites associated with Dr. Ambedkar to honor his legacy.
“Unlike Congress, which denied Dalits their rightful opportunities, BJP has integrated the underprivileged into mainstream welfare initiatives. Our government is committed to Dr. Ambedkar’s vision of equality and empowerment,” CM Yogi emphasized.
The Chief Minister concluded by reaffirming the BJP’s dedication to preserving Dr. Ambedkar’s ideals and working tirelessly to uplift all sections of society.