THE ASIAN INDEPENDENT UK-
To, 12/18/2024
Respected Rashtrapati Smt. Droupadi Murmu
The Honorable President of India,
Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi – 110004
Subject: Strong Condemnation of Remarks Made by Shri Amit Shah on Babasaheb Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
Respected Rashtrapati Ji,
With the utmost respect for your esteemed office, the undersigned organizations write to you as concerned citizens deeply disturbed by recent remarks made by Shri Amit Shah, the Honorable Union Home Minister, about Babasaheb Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution and a revered leader who championed the cause of social justice and equality.
Shri Amit Shah’s statements, which have been widely reported in the media, appear to demean the unparalleled contributions of Babasaheb Dr. Ambedkar to India’s nation-building and his lifelong struggle for the rights of the marginalized. “ अभी एक फैशन हो गया है. अंबेडकर, अंबेडकर, अंबेडकर… इतना नाम अगर भगवान का लेते तो सात जन्मों तक स्वर्ग मिल जाता “ (It has now become a fashion to say- Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar…If you recite this many times of God name, you will attain heaven for seven lifetimes.). These remarks have hurt the sentiments of millions of Indians, particularly those belonging to marginalized and oppressed communities, who regard Babasaheb Dr. Ambedkar as an icon of social reform and empowerment.
Babasaheb Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s vision of justice, equality, and fraternity laid the foundation of our democratic ethos. As the principal architect of the Indian Constitution, he ensured that India would stand as a secular and inclusive democracy, guaranteeing equal rights to all citizens irrespective of caste, creed, religion, or gender. Any attempt to undermine his legacy is an affront not only to his memory but also to the core values enshrined in our Constitution.
As the custodian of the Indian Constitution and the highest authority in the Republic of India, we urge you to take cognizance of this matter and ensure that the dignity and legacy of Babasaheb Dr. Ambedkar are protected. Such remarks, whether made intentionally or otherwise, have the potential to sow discord and weaken the social fabric of our nation.
We respectfully request the following actions:
- A public clarification and apology from Shri Amit Shah for his remarks, acknowledging the harm caused to the sentiments of millions of Indians.
- A reaffirmation of the government’s commitment to uphold the values and principles championed by Babasaheb Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.
- Actions to promote greater awareness of Babasaheb Dr. Ambedkar’s contributions among public officials and the general populace to prevent such incidents in the future.
Babasaheb Dr. Ambedkar’s legacy is not just the pride of one community but a treasure for the entire nation. It is imperative that every citizen, especially those in positions of power, honor and respect his contributions. I trust that your esteemed office will act promptly and judiciously in this matter.
Thank you for your attention to this urgent and sensitive issue.
The below-signed organizations remain hopeful that respect for Babasaheb Dr. Ambedkar’s unparalleled legacy will prevail.
Yours sincerely,
NRI Ambedkarite https://chng.it/6jTmpZcwXW
Global NRI Forum-GNF
Equality Labs
Boston Study Group-BSG
Begmpura Cultural Society of New York
South Asian Dalit Adivasi Network, Canada-SADAN
Coalition of Americans for Pluralism in India-CAPI
Ambedkar International Mission, USA (AIM)
Ambedkar International Mission Center, Japan (AIM)
Ambedkar International Mission Center Houston, USA (AIM)
Ambedkarite International Co-Ordination Society-AICS
Ambedkarites International Mission Society-Canada (AIMS)
Ambedkar International Social Reform Organization ( AISRO) Canada
Ambedkar Buddhist Association of Texas-ABAT
Ambedkar Mission Canada
Ambedkar King Study Circle (AKSC)
Periyar International USA
Periyar Ambedkar Study Circle-PASC
Chetna Association of Canada
Dhamma Waves
Ambedkar Times
Desh Doaba
Ad Dharm Brotherhood USA
International Bahujan Organization
International Boddhisativa Guru Ravidass Organization Inc
Guru Ravidas Sabha, Bay area, California
Samata Sainik Dal -SSD
Federation of Ambedkarite and Buddhist Organisations UK
Dr Ambedkar Buddhist Organisation Birmingham UK
Dr. Ambedkar Memorial Committee Of Great Britain
Dr. Ambedkar Mission Society Europe Germany
Ambedkar International Mission Europe
Shri Guru Ravidas Temple
Ambedkar International Center-AIC
Midwest Ambedkarites, Chicago
Ambedkar Association of Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.
Samaj weekly United Kingdom
The Asian Independent United Kingdom