Mamata Banerjee Criticizes BJP Over Amit Shah’s Remarks, Sparks Political Debate

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has strongly criticized Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s recent remarks, accusing the BJP of harboring a “casteist” and “anti-Dalit mindset.” She alleged that the BJP “mask has fallen off” and claimed the party would have rewritten history to erase Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s contributions if it had secured its pre-poll goal of 400 Lok Sabha seats.

Banerjee expressed her outrage, stating, “As Parliament reflects on 75 years of the Constitution, Amit Shah tarnished the occasion with derogatory remarks against Dr. Ambedkar in the temple of democracy. This reflects the BJP’s casteist and anti-Dalit ideology.” She added, “If they behave this way with 240 seats, imagine the damage they would inflict with 400 seats.”

She also criticized Shah’s comment as an attack on Dr. Ambedkar and the entire Drafting Committee of the Constitution. Her sharp remarks have ignited a political storm, with opposition parties joining the fray.

During his speech in the Rajya Sabha, Shah accused the Congress Party of turning Ambedkar’s name into a “fashion” while neglecting his ideals. He stated, “If they had invoked God’s name as much as Ambedkar’s, they would secure heaven for seven lives.” This statement led to protests in Parliament, with opposition MPs accusing Shah of disrespecting Ambedkar and holding up photos of the Constitution’s architect.

Congress MP Manickam Tagore moved an adjournment motion to debate the issue. Meanwhile, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju defended Shah, accusing Congress of undermining Ambedkar and questioning their genuine respect for him. Rijiju, the first Buddhist to serve as Union Law Minister since Ambedkar, highlighted the position’s significance.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also supported Shah, alleging Congress has a history of disrespecting Ambedkar and neglecting SC/ST communities during its tenure. Amid the escalating tensions, both houses of Parliament were adjourned following protests by opposition members.