BJP, Congress exploiting Ambedkar's legacy: Mayawati

BSP president Mayawati has accused the BJP and Congress of exploiting BR Ambedkar’s name for political gains while failing to genuinely respect or honour his contributions. She alleged that these parties have not done enough for Dalits and other marginalised communities.

“Instead of using Dr BR Ambedkar as a tool for their political benefits, the BJP, the Congress and their allies must truly respect and honour his legacy. The BSP has no objection to the gods these parties worship, but for Dalits and the marginalised, Dr Ambedkar is their sole god. It is because of him that these communities were granted constitutional rights, a moment that, for them, equates to gaining heavenly bliss for seven lifetimes,” Mayawati posted on X in Hindi.

She further alleged that the compassion Congress and BJP claim to have for Dalits is “nothing more than a façade” aimed at misleading people.

“Their so-called love for Dalits and other marginalised communities is pure deception. True welfare for these communities is impossible under their rule. Their actions are more symbolic than meaningful, with little actual impact on people’s lives,” the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister said.

Mayawati stressed that the “Bahujan Samaj” and its great saints, spiritual leaders, and icons were given genuine respect and recognition “only during BSP governments”. The Congress on Wednesday demanded the resignation of Home Minister Shah for his remarks in the Rajya Sabha which it claimed were an insult to Ambedkar. It also demanded that Shah should apologise publicly and in Parliament for the remarks.