Tue Dec 24 21:21:39 UTC 2024: ## BJP and Congress Clash Over Alleged Insult to B.R. Ambedkar in Madhya Pradesh
**Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh –** A political storm erupted in Madhya Pradesh on December 24th, 2024, as the Congress and BJP traded accusations of disrespecting B.R. Ambedkar. The Congress launched state-wide protests condemning Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s recent parliamentary remarks, which they deemed an insult to the architect of the Indian Constitution.
Led by MP Congress president Jitu Patwari and other senior leaders, the protests involved marches and demonstrations featuring Ambedkar’s imagery and slogans demanding Shah’s resignation. Patwari accused the BJP of being anti-Dalit and anti-Constitution, citing past instances of alleged disrespect towards Ambedkar.
The BJP responded sharply, with Chief Minister Mohan Yadav countering that the Congress had historically mistreated Ambedkar. The BJP also circulated a video appearing to show Patwari placing an Ambedkar poster on his knee, alleging this as further proof of Congress disrespect. Senior BJP leader Narottam Mishra amplified this claim on X (formerly Twitter), accusing the Congress of using Ambedkar for political gain.
Shah’s controversial comment in Parliament, stating that invoking Ambedkar’s name had become a “fashion,” sparked the initial outrage. The remark triggered immediate protests within Parliament and now widespread demonstrations across the state. The BSP also joined in the protests against Shah’s comments. The Madhya Pradesh Youth Congress plans further marches across the state from December 25th to 29th. The escalating conflict highlights the sensitive nature of Ambedkar’s legacy and its potent role in Indian politics.
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