Constitution Debate In Lok Sabha: Rijiju Highligts Congress’ Treatment Of Ambedkar, Slams Party's Border Road Policies—All About It

Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju, while initiating the Constitution debate on its second day in the Lok Sabha, emphasised that India not only provides legal protection to minorities but also implements affirmative action for their welfare. 

“While India has given equal voting rights to all, some claim that minorities have no rights in the country,” Rijiju said, taking an apparent jibe at the Opposition.

Here are a few notable highlights from his speech 

Nehru’s Stance on Scheduled Castes

Quoting BR Ambedkar, Rijiju alleged, "The Leader of Congress party Nehru never spoke about the welfare of Scheduled Caste and from this we can infer that Pandit Nehru always stood for Muslims."

Ambedkar Denied Economy and Planning Portfolio

Rijiju highlighted that B R Ambedkar was denied the Economy and Planning portfolio in the then Cabinet and was given only the law portfolio.

The minister said this denial raised significant questions about the Congress party's treatment of Ambedkar.

Rijiju Slams Congress on Border Road Policy

Kiren Rijiju criticised the Congress for its past policies on border road construction, stating, "The then Defence Minister had said that roads would not be constructed across border areas of northeastern states, so that Chinese incursion can be prevented."

He took a swipe at the Opposition for its handling of infrastructure development in strategically significant areas.

Also Read: ‘Pakistani Drone Incursions Have Dropped To Almost Zero In Jammu': BSF Highlights Success Of Upgraded Anti-Drone Systems