Reservation controversy: Congress faces backlash over plans to revoke Ambedkar's policies
Congress has also been criticized for prioritizing the Muslim community’s interests over Dalit communities, with one Congress leader stating that “Muslims have the first right over India’s resources.”
New Delhi: Since India’s independence, the Congress party has lauded the Constitution and its architect, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar. However, critics argue that Congress’s commitment has been largely symbolic, as evidenced by its policies, such as establishing separate constitutions for Kashmir and the rest of India. Critics further claim that the party has used the Constitution and Ambedkar’s legacy more as electoral strategies than as guiding principles.
A History of Opposition to Reservation Policies
Throughout the years, prominent Congress figures, including Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, and Rajiv Gandhi, have faced criticism for their alleged opposition to reservations for disadvantaged communities—provisions that Ambedkar explicitly designed. Recent statements from Congress leaders, such as Rahul Gandhi’s alleged intention to abolish reservations, have sparked outrage among the Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC) communities. Maharashtra State Congress President Nana Patole’s remarks supporting the end of reservations have further fueled the controversy, sparking warnings from these communities ahead of upcoming elections.
BJP’s Position on Reservations
Contrary to Congress’s stance, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has preserved and expanded reservation policies. The BJP points to these actions as part of their commitment to support SC, ST, and OBC communities. Their stance has led to heightened scrutiny of Congress’s approach to Ambedkar’s legacy.
Impact on Dalit and Disadvantaged Communities
Congress has also been criticized for prioritizing the Muslim community’s interests over Dalit communities, with one Congress leader stating that “Muslims have the first right over India’s resources.” This has intensified discontent among disadvantaged groups, who view Congress’s stance as a departure from Ambedkar’s vision. The current debate underscores a deepening rift, with the BJP emphasizing its intent to uphold reservations for social equity rather than economic reasons.
