Fri Dec 20 09:26:55 UTC 2024: ## Congress Accuses BJP of Distraction Tactics Amidst Ambedkar Controversy
**New Delhi** – Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi today accused the BJP of attempting to deflect attention from the ongoing controversy surrounding Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s remarks on B.R. Ambedkar. They reiterated their demand for Shah’s resignation and announced plans for a nationwide movement to protect Ambedkar’s legacy.
The accusations followed a heated exchange in Parliament. Kharge claimed that BJP members physically assaulted him and other Congress MPs, including women, while they were peacefully protesting near Ambedkar’s statue. He alleged that he was pushed and injured his knees. Gandhi similarly denied allegations that he had shoved BJP lawmakers, countering that the BJP initiated the physical confrontation.
Gandhi asserted that the BJP’s actions are a calculated attempt to shift focus from the Adani Group’s alleged corruption, currently under investigation in the US. He stated that the BJP is deliberately avoiding discussion on this crucial matter.
The controversy stems from Shah’s speech on Tuesday, celebrating 75 years of the Indian Constitution. While Shah criticized the Congress for allegedly disrespecting Ambedkar, his comments – particularly a comparison of invoking Ambedkar’s name to invoking God’s name – sparked outrage within the opposition INDIA bloc. The Congress shared select clips of Shah’s speech, alleging that he insulted Ambedkar. The BJP denied these accusations, with Prime Minister Modi accusing the Congress of spreading malicious lies.
Kharge criticized Shah for refusing to apologize or resign, stating that the Congress will not tolerate the “reprehensible” actions of the BJP. He also dismissed BJP claims about Nehru and Ambedkar’s relationship as lies. The Congress plans a nationwide protest to counter what they call the BJP’s attempt to undermine Ambedkar’s legacy and suppress discussion of the Adani Group allegations.
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