Maharashtra Cabinet Minister Girish Mahajan said the omission of Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar’s name during his Republic Day speech in Nashik was inadvertent and urged people not to create social divisions over the issue.
The controversy erupted after Madhavi Jadhav, a forest guard who was part of the Republic Day function in Nashik, objected to the Minister’s speech for not mentioning Dr Ambedkar. He later approached the Nashik police demanding an apology and sought action against Mahajan under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989.
Responding to the criticism, Mahajan said he was pained by the allegations and reaffirmed his respect for Ambedkar’s ideology.
“I grew up in the RSS tradition and respect Babasaheb Ambedkar’s thoughts. I never intended to insult him. If his name was omitted, it must have been by mistake. But why create such a big problem out of it?” Mahajan said.
He added that he actively participates in Ambedkar Jayanti celebrations every year in his village and taluka and has done so consistently for over 40 years.
“I don’t just talk about Ambedkar’s ideology, I practice it. I have been celebrating Ambedkar Jayanti every year by organizing events, driving tractors and participating in traditional sports. A big statue of Babasaheb has been erected in Jamner. Our policy is inclusive, we give tickets to people from all communities. I eat with villagers and sit at community festivals,” Mahajan said.
Mahajan also questioned the demand of filing an atrocity case against him.
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“Why should an atrocity case be registered? I have never worn a blue shirt to make a political spectacle, but I have always respected Babasaheb. Even if it was an oversight, why is it being exaggerated?” asked.
Meanwhile, Madhavi Jadhav reiterated her stand and said the commission amounted to disrespect to the architect of the Constitution.
“Even if he bathes in a holy river, this sin will not be removed. Only constitutional action can cleanse him. An atrocity case must be filed against him. Otherwise, I will go on a hunger strike,” he warned.
Congress leader Varsha Gaikwad said on social media that the BJP was “allergic” to Dr Ambedkar’s name and accused the party of repeatedly insulting the architect of the Constitution.
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“This government is based on the Constitution written by Babasaheb Ambedkar, but they insult it again and again. I salute the Forest Guard who raised their voice without fearing suspension,” Gaikwad said.
Mahajan, however, maintained that there was no deliberate attempt to disrespect Dr Ambedkar and apologized if sentiments were hurt.
“I raised slogans of ‘Vande Mataram’, ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’ and ‘Shivaji Maharaj Ki Jai’. There was absolutely no intention to hurt anyone. If anyone was hurt, I apologize,” he said.