Mayawati Accuses BJP and Congress of Exploiting Ambedkar's Legacy

BSP president Mayawati criticized BJP and Congress for allegedly exploiting BR Ambedkar's legacy for political purposes yet failing to honor his work genuinely. Amidst the uproar in Parliament over Amit Shah's remarks on Ambedkar, Mayawati claimed these parties provide only a facade of support for Dalits.

In a fiery accusation, Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) president Mayawati on Wednesday alleged that both the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Congress have been exploiting the name of BR Ambedkar for political gains without genuinely respecting his contributions.

This statement emerged amid a political uproar in Parliament triggered by Union Home Minister Amit Shah's recent remarks on Ambedkar, which were met with opposition ire. Mayawati argued that the compassion claimed by BJP and Congress for Dalits and marginalized communities is merely a facade.

Furthermore, Mayawati asserted that true acknowledgment and respect for icons of the 'Bahujan Samaj' were witnessed only during BSP governments. The Congress has demanded Amit Shah's resignation and apology for his remarks, which they deem an insult to Ambedkar. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi defended Shah, accusing Congress of insulting Ambedkar's legacy.

(With inputs from agencies.)