TMC files privilege notice against Amit Shah over “Ambedkar remarks” in Rajya Sabha

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has filed a privilege notice against Union Home Minister Amit Shah, citing his remarks in the Rajya Sabha on December 17 during a debate commemorating 75 years of the Constitution. TMC MP Derek O’Brien moved the notice under Rule 187 of the Rules of Procedure, alleging that Shah’s comments disrespected Dr BR Ambedkar and violated parliamentary norms.

During the debate, Shah remarked, “It has become a fashion to say Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar. If they took God’s name so many times, they would have got a place in heaven.” He also questioned the Opposition’s “sentiments” toward Ambedkar, stating that invoking his name without action was not enough. Shah further pointed out that Ambedkar had resigned from Jawaharlal Nehru’s cabinet due to differences over critical policies.

The comments led to protests in Parliament, with Opposition MPs holding photographs of Ambedkar and demanding Shah’s resignation. Opposition leaders accused Shah of insulting Ambedkar and the values he championed, while BJP leaders defended Shah’s remarks, claiming they were taken out of context. The BJP alleged that historical actions, such as Ambedkar’s electoral defeats and delayed recognition, highlighted the Opposition’s lack of respect for the Constitution’s architect.

The row has escalated tensions in Parliament, with the Opposition pressing for an apology from Shah and the ruling party defending his statements as factual. The privilege notice adds to the political standoff, with Ambedkar’s legacy becoming the center of intense debates in the ongoing session.