At a powerful rally in Ambedkar’s birthplace on Monday, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge called on party workers to unite in safeguarding the Indian Constitution, warning that the Dalits, backward classes, tribals, and the poor will suffer if the Constitution is undermined. The rally, which was held under the banner of “Jai Bapu, Jai Bhim, Jai Samvidhan,” was a direct response to what Kharge described as the BJP and RSS’s attempts to insult the Constitution and exploit the poor for political gain.

“We cannot allow the Constitution to be tampered with. If it is destroyed, it will be the poor, the Dalits, and the backward classes who will bear the brunt,” Kharge said, addressing a crowd of thousands.

[Quote Section – Kharge’s Statement]

“The BJP and RSS are traitors. They have nothing but disdain for the Constitution that Ambedkar gave us,” Kharge declared.

[Key Points of Kharge’s Address]

• Unity for Constitution: Kharge stressed the importance of protecting the Constitution and remaining united, warning that without it, poverty and unemployment will continue to plague the nation.
• BJP-RSS Criticism: He accused BJP and RSS leaders of prioritizing religious symbolism, such as taking dips in the Ganga for media attention, while doing nothing to address India’s deep socio-economic issues.
• Attack on BJP Leaders: The Congress president mocked BJP leaders for their “camera-driven” acts of religious piety, particularly at the Maha Kumbh, while accusing them of failing to tackle real poverty.
• Allegations of Historical Collaboration: He claimed the RSS had aligned with the British during India’s struggle for independence, and called them “deshdrohi” (traitors) for their role in undermining the country’s freedom movement.

[Sidebar – Key Quotes from Rally]

• “To free the poor from poverty, you must protect the Constitution.”
• “BJP’s leaders are more concerned with photo ops than actual change for the people.”
• “The RSS-BJP are traitors to the nation’s soul.”

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[Political Analysis Section]

What this means for Congress’s 2024 Strategy
Kharge’s remarks align with Congress’s strategy to emphasize social justice and the protection of the Constitution as key issues heading into the 2024 elections. By portraying the BJP and RSS as hostile to the marginalized and uninterested in tackling economic inequality, the Congress aims to rally support among Dalits, backward classes, tribals, and the poor.

In a passionate address to thousands of supporters at the “Jai Bapu, Jai Bhim, Jai Samvidhan” rally on Monday, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi accused the BJP and RSS of undermining the legacy of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and the Constitution framed by him. He called on Congress workers to protect the Constitution from those he believes are intent on dismantling its core principles.

“The BJP and RSS are insulting Dr. Ambedkar’s vision, and their goal is to rewrite the Constitution that guarantees equal rights to all,” said Gandhi, standing in front of a sea of supporters waving flags.

[Quote Section – Gandhi’s Statement]

“The day our Constitution is changed, there will be nothing left in this country for Dalits, backward classes, tribals, and the poor,” Gandhi warned.

[Key Points of Gandhi’s Address]

• Caste Census: Gandhi announced that the Congress would conduct a nationwide caste census as soon as they come to power at the Centre, accusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi of avoiding the issue due to political concerns.
• Reservation Law: Gandhi vowed that the Congress would push for a law in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha to ensure that the 50% reservation limit is respected and extended if necessary.
• BJP’s Alleged Crony Capitalism: He alleged that the current BJP government was working for the benefit of billionaires, leaving the poor, Dalits, and tribals in economic despair.

[Sidebar – Key Quotes from Rally]

• “The poor will soon have no rights if the BJP and RSS have their way.”
• “A change in our Constitution would mean the end of any protections for marginalized groups.”

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[Political Analysis Section]

What does this mean for 2024 elections?
Gandhi’s remarks resonate with the Congress’s ongoing effort to portray the BJP as a party that caters to the interests of the rich, while disregarding the needs of India’s marginalized communities. The call for a caste census and the breaking of the reservation ceiling come as part of an ongoing battle for social justice in India’s complex caste-based society.

Amritsar, January 27, 2025 – Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has condemned the recent attempt to damage a statue of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in Amritsar, pledging that those responsible for the act will face severe punishment. The incident, which occurred at the Town Hall on Heritage Street leading to the Golden Temple, has sparked outrage across the state.

Arrest Made in Connection with the Incident

On Sunday, the police arrested a man from Moga district who allegedly tried to deface the Ambedkar statue using a hammer. The arrest was made after the Amritsar Police Commissionerate registered a First Information Report (FIR) in the case. In a post on X, CM Bhagwant Mann expressed his outrage, calling the incident “highly condemnable.” He emphasized that no one will be allowed to disrupt the unity and brotherhood of Punjab, stating, “Whoever is responsible for the incident, he/she will be severely punished.” The chief minister also directed the local administration to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure strict action against the culprits.

Video of the Incident Goes Viral

A video of the incident quickly went viral on social media, showing the suspect climbing up the statue with the help of a steel ladder and carrying a hammer. The disturbing footage has further fueled calls for justice and a deeper investigation into the motives behind the attack.

Opposition Leaders Demand High-Level Probe

The attack has sparked strong reactions from opposition leaders, with many calling for a comprehensive investigation into the matter. Punjab Congress chief and MP Amrinder Singh Raja Warring voiced concerns about a potential “deep-rooted conspiracy” behind the attack. He called for a high-level probe into the incident, adding that the truth must be unearthed. BJP senior leader Tarun Chugh also condemned the act, insisting that the accused must be given strict punishment. He echoed Warring’s concerns, stating that the conspiracy behind the attack should be fully investigated. Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Sukhbir Singh Badal condemned the incident as well, describing it as an “heinous act” that hurt the sentiments of millions of people. Badal demanded a thorough inquiry and stern action against the perpetrator, adding, “Let’s stand united against such vile attempts to create divisions in our society.”

Punjab Government’s Response

In light of the incident, the Punjab government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring peace and harmony in the state. The CM has assured the public that this incident will not be tolerated and that efforts will be made to prevent any similar acts in the future. As the investigation unfolds, authorities are under pressure to determine if this act was part of a broader conspiracy and to bring the full truth to light.

In a dramatic escalation of political tensions, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Friday accused the BJP-led central government and the Delhi Police of conspiring to “kill” its leader, Arvind Kejriwal. The serious allegations were made just days before the crucial Delhi Assembly elections set for February 5.

Addressing the press, Delhi Chief Minister Atishi and her Punjab counterpart, Bhagwant Mann, demanded the restoration of Kejriwal’s security cover, which was previously provided by the Punjab Police. The AAP leaders have written to the Election Commission, seeking a “fair” environment for their party in the upcoming elections. They also called for an audit of the alleged attacks on Kejriwal, which they say pose a “life-threatening” risk to his safety.

“A Conspiracy to End Kejriwal’s Life”
Atishi and Mann wasted no time in laying the blame squarely on the BJP and Delhi Police, accusing both of orchestrating a conspiracy to end the life of the Delhi CM. According to Atishi, the series of attacks on Kejriwal, including an October incident where the assailants were reportedly BJP workers, have been ignored by the police.

“At the time of the attack in October, our investigation revealed that the attackers were BJP workers, yet no action was taken by the Delhi Police. It’s clear that there is a deliberate attempt to harm Kejriwalji, orchestrated by the BJP and the Delhi Police,” Atishi alleged, emphasizing the apparent lack of accountability.

Demand for Immediate Action
The AAP has written to the Election Commission demanding the immediate restoration of Kejriwal’s security cover, citing concerns over his safety. Atishi further stated that due to the Delhi Police being under the Union Home Ministry, which is controlled by Amit Shah, they cannot trust the local law enforcement to ensure Kejriwal’s protection.

“We believe that the Delhi Police is working under the direct influence of the BJP and Home Minister Amit Shah. This is why we do not trust them with Kejriwalji’s security,” Atishi added.

Political Play Before the Polls
The AAP leaders also accused the BJP of resorting to “dirty politics” ahead of the Delhi Assembly elections by removing Kejriwal’s security. They argued that the BJP’s move was a deliberate attempt to weaken Kejriwal and create an atmosphere of fear among voters.

“The BJP is willing to go to any lengths to ensure Kejriwal is undermined politically. This move to strip him of his security cover is an indication of their desperation,” Mann remarked.

While the AAP’s claims have intensified political rhetoric in the capital, no immediate reaction has been received from the BJP or the Delhi Police regarding the allegations.

Election Season Intensifies
As Delhi gears up for a high-stakes election, with the BJP, AAP, and other parties preparing their strategies, the dispute over security and alleged attacks on Kejriwal threatens to dominate the political discourse in the coming days. The Election Commission is yet to respond to AAP’s request for intervention, and all eyes will be on how this situation develops ahead of the polls.