December 24, 2024: Manipur Congress leader Gaikhangam Gangmei has strongly criticized Union Home Minister Amit Shah for his "disgraceful" remarks about Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the architect of India's Constitution. Gangmei, a former Deputy Chief Minister of Manipur, described Shah's comments as "disparaging" and accused the senior BJP leader of undermining Ambedkar's legacy and belittling the foundational principles of India's Constitution.
In a statement released on Monday, Gangmei condemned Shah’s remarks made during a debate on December 17, where the Home Minister invoked Ambedkar while attacking the Congress party. He called for an immediate apology from Amit Shah, echoing the demands of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge. Gangmei also took aim at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing him of defending Shah’s controversial statements rather than holding him accountable.
"The Congress Party demands an unconditional apology from Amit Shah, and his immediate resignation. Instead of acknowledging the gravity of his comments, the Prime Minister has chosen to defend him, shielding him from any consequences," Gangmei stated.
On December 19, the Congress Party moved a privilege notice against Shah in the Rajya Sabha, which escalated into a protest by MPs from the opposition INDIA bloc. This protest turned violent, resulting in a scuffle between opposition and ruling party MPs. Two BJP MPs were injured during the altercation.
Gangmei accused the BJP of deliberately escalating tensions within Parliament. "In a clear violation of security protocols, BJP MPs were allowed to bring rods and sticks into the House. This deliberate act of provocation led to violence, leaving Congress President Kharge injured and several female MPs, including Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, mistreated," Gangmei said.
Despite the escalating tensions, Gangmei reiterated the Congress Party's unwavering commitment to defending the Constitution and democratic values. He emphasized that Congress would continue to oppose any attempts to undermine the core principles of India's democracy.
"Congress will do everything in its power to resist any onslaught on our Constitution and democracy," Gangmei concluded, calling for Shah’s resignation and reaffirming the party’s resolve to uphold the legacy of Dr. Ambedkar.