Chandigarh, December 18
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Punjab on Wednesday launched a scathing attack on the BJP and Union Home Minister Amit Shah over his derogatory remarks against Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in Parliament. Punjab Minister Harpal Singh Cheema accused the BJP of harboring a deep-seated hatred for the Constitution, Dr. Ambedkar's ideology, and the rights of Dalits and marginalized communities.
Harpal Cheema strongly condemned Amit Shah’s statement where he reportedly mocked the frequent references to Dr. Ambedkar in parliamentary discussions. “When the Union Home Minister says, ‘Taking Ambedkar's name is becoming fashion, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar… if God’s name was taken this much, one would earn a place in heaven for seven lives,’ it is not only an insult to Dr. Ambedkar but also a direct attack on the Constitution of India and the principles of equality and justice it upholds,” said Cheema.
He said that such remarks reveal the BJP’s true intentions and mentality. “Dr. Ambedkar gave this nation its Constitution after years of struggle, ensuring the right to property, education, work, and equality for all, especially for the oppressed. For 75 years, this Constitution has been the foundation of democracy in India. Yet, the BJP’s actions and words clearly show their disdain for this document and the visionary who created it,” Cheema added.
Cheema reminded the public that the Aam Aadmi Party has consistently warned about the BJP’s agenda to undermine the Constitution and erode Dr. Ambedkar’s legacy. He accused the BJP of working to dismantle the rights enshrined in the Constitution, which have empowered millions from marginalized communities.
“The Home Minister’s words have exposed the BJP’s anti-Dalit and anti-Constitutional mindset. Their hatred for Baba Saheb and his ideology is undeniable. This is why the BJP is desperate to rewrite the very principles that define our democracy,” Cheema said.
AAP’s Punjab minister called for an immediate apology from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Amit Shah to the people of India. “The BJP’s leadership must apologize for this disgraceful statement and clarify their stand on the Constitution and Dr. Ambedkar’s vision. The people of India, especially the Dalit community, will not tolerate such blatant disrespect,” he said.
Harpal Cheema reaffirmed AAP’s commitment to safeguarding the Constitution and fighting any attempts to dilute its essence. “If the BJP dares to bring any amendments to the Constitution that weaken its core principles, AAP will resist them with all its might. We will stand as a bulwark against any such assault on India’s democracy and its people,” he said.