Cong can't hide their insults of Ambedkar: PM

Opposition demands Shah's resignation, HM accuses Cong of distorting his statement

- STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE

Union Home Minister Amit Shah's remarks on Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar in Rajya Sabha turned into a major controversy on Wednesday with the Congress-led Opposition raising a storm in Parliament, causing both Houses to be adjourned without transacting any business. Mr Shah also came under attack from Opposition leaders across the spectrum, while the ruling party, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, mounted a fierce defence.

Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge, among others, demanded Mr Shah's resignation, in response to which the Union Home Minister accused the grand old party of distorting his statement for vested political interests. At a press conference, Mr Kharge referred to the Home Minister's remark in the Upper House that it had become a fashion to name 'Ambedkar, Ambedkar' for furthering one's political interests.

This, he said, amounted to insulting the architect of the Constitution.