Protests Erupt in Uttar Pradesh Over Amit Shah's Controversial Remarks on BR Ambedkar

A case has been filed against nine Samajwadi Party members and others for allegedly obstructing roads during a protest. This demonstration was in response to recent comments made by Union Home Minister Amit Shah about B.R. Ambedkar, according to police reports on Sunday.

The FIR was lodged at Khalilabad police station late Saturday night. It includes charges under various sections of the BNS, such as unlawful assembly, wrongful restraint, disobedience to orders by a public servant, and obstructing a public servant in duty. These charges were confirmed by the authorities.

Protests and Memorandum Submission

On Saturday, several Samajwadi Party workers gathered at the collectorate office. They aimed to submit a memorandum addressed to President Droupadi Murmu through the district magistrate. Their demand was for Amit Shah's resignation following his controversial remarks.

Following the submission of the memorandum, some workers began protesting and allegedly blocked the road. This led to further action by the police. SHO Satish Kumar Singh stated that the protest escalated after the memorandum was handed over.

Statewide Demonstrations

The Samajwadi Party organised protests across the state on Saturday. These demonstrations were against Shah's remarks on Ambedkar in Parliament. Many party lawmakers participated and submitted memorandums to President Murmu via district magistrates, demanding an apology from Shah and his resignation.

Amit Shah's comments have drawn criticism from various opposition parties since Tuesday. His remarks were made during a debate on the Constitution in the Rajya Sabha. Shah had commented, "Abhi ek fashion ho gaya hai - Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar. Itna naam agar Bhagwan ka lete to saat janmon tak swarg mil jata."

Response from Amit Shah

The day after his remarks, Amit Shah held a press conference. He accused Congress of twisting facts and misrepresenting his statements. This defence came amid growing backlash from opposition parties over his comments on Ambedkar.

Lalit Kant, in charge of Bardahia Bazar police outpost, filed a complaint leading to the case registration. The individuals named include Rahul alias Badal Yadav, Raja Yadav, Shailendra Yadav, Azim, Manishank Yadav, Kanhaiya Yadav, Vijay Yadav, Yusuf Kamal and Ram Darash Yadav.

The incident highlights ongoing tensions between political parties over sensitive historical figures like Ambedkar. The protests reflect broader dissatisfaction with certain political narratives and statements made in public forums.