LUCKNOW: Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati on Monday accused the BJP and the Congress of disrespecting the legacy of B R Ambedkar and exploiting Dalit votes for political gains. She also called on people from all communities to ensure the success of the BSP's nationwide protest on Tuesday against Union Home Minister Amit Shah's remarks on Ambedkar. In a series of posts on X, Mayawati described the remarks as deeply hurtful to Ambedkar's followers.
"The recent events prove that neither the BJP nor the Congress is truly committed to protecting the interests of Ambedkar's followers. Their policies and principles lack sincerity," she said. Referring to Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi's scheduled visit to Parbhani, Maharashtra to meet the family of a man who died in judicial custody, Mayawati termed the Congress' response to the controversy "crocodile tears".
"Despite Ambedkar's struggles and contributions, the Congress has historically maintained a casteist and neglectful attitude towards his community and its welfare. Their remembrance of Dalits and backward classes only comes when they face political crises," the former chief minister said. Mayawati also took aim at Shah and demanded the withdrawal of his remarks about Ambedkar.
"In light of the disrespectful comments, the BSP is calling for peaceful demonstrations in district headquarters across the country tomorrow. I appeal to all communities to ensure the success of these protests. Those exploiting Amb.