A Champion for SCs, Women, and Muslims
Stood Firmly for the Rights of the Oppressed
Remarks Against Ambedkar Are Unacceptable
Union Home Minister Amit Shah Must Resign
Protests Held at Ambedkar Statue in Kurnool
Ambedkar was not just a leader for SCs but a staunch supporter of backward classes (BCs) as well, stated Dr. J. Poornachandra Rao, BSP Andhra Pradesh Coordinator and former DGP. Speaking at a protest organized by BSP near the Ambedkar statue at Kurnool bus stand on Tuesday, Dr. Rao condemned the recent remarks made by Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Parliament about Ambedkar.
He expressed disappointment, stating, “Expecting a regime like the BJP's to respect visionaries like Ambedkar is our mistake. The BJP government, which thrives on division and hatred, has once again shown its true colors.” A large number of party workers, leaders, and supporters participated in the event.
He continued, “The comments made by Amit Shah about Ambedkar in Parliament are shameful. Despite public outrage, neither Amit Shah nor the BJP has apologized or expressed regret. Instead, they continue to display arrogance. Following the directive of our leader Behen Mayawati, protests and demonstrations were held in all district headquarters across the state today. BJP's disdain for Ambedkar highlights their deep-seated prejudice and hostility, similar to what Congress exhibited in the past.
“Ambedkar's name is not just a word; it represents a passion for this nation. Contrary to misconceptions, Ambedkar stood for all oppressed classes, not just SCs. He was a strong advocate for BCs, SCs, women, and Muslims. He fought for reservations in legislatures for BCs and women. Despite the oppression by dominant castes, it is Ambedkar's teachings that empower SCs, BCs, and Muslims to stand tall today. His vision prevents this country from descending into civil unrest despite the divisive tactics of caste-driven politics.
“The Union Home Minister, Amit Shah, must resign immediately and tender an unconditional apology for his derogatory comments about Ambedkar. The BJP, which fosters fascism and sells the country to a few wealthy corporates, has no respect for the Constitution. Their dismissive attitude towards Ambedkar, the architect of our Constitution and a deity to marginalized communities, is disgraceful.”
He further criticized regional parties, saying, “In Andhra Pradesh, both ruling and opposition parties—YCP and TDP—remain silent, bowing to BJP’s pressure. Do we need such spineless and self-serving parties? When Dalit lands are being looted in Yadavalley, the steel plant in Vizag is being sold off, and Deep Tech propaganda is being pushed, these governments fail to address the actual issues.”
Dr. Rao also highlighted systemic disparities, pointing out that, “In Rayalaseema, which includes Nellore, there are 63 assembly constituencies. Out of these, 27 MLAs belong to the Reddy community. Under Jagan’s governance, this number went up to 40, and during the TDP regime, it was 25. This isn’t Rayalaseema; this is Reddy-seema. Despite widespread poverty and unemployment in the region, what are these MLAs doing?”
He concluded by emphasizing, “Ambedkar was not merely a political leader or a representative of SCs. He was a visionary who worked tirelessly for the betterment of the entire nation. If such a towering personality is insulted, we will not remain silent. Our fight will continue until Amit Shah apologizes and resigns.”
The protest, organized by the BSP district committee, witnessed massive participation from party workers and supporters from all constituencies. BSP District President Jayaraj, along with leaders Arunkumar and Sadiq Basha, participated.