Mumbai
In Maharashtra, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) members held protests on Thursday against NCP (SP) MLA Jitendra Awhad, alleging disrespect towards Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar. Awhad, a former state minister, apologized on Wednesday for tearing posters condemning the Manusmriti, which featured Ambedkar’s image. The incident occurred during a protest in Mahad, Raigad district, opposing the state government’s purported plan to include Manusmriti verses in school curricula. Awhad, who previously voiced opposition to the Manusmriti’s caste system and derogatory treatment of women, faced backlash after videos of the protest emerged showing him tearing posters depicting Ambedkar.
BJP workers staged protests in Mumbai, Nagpur, Thane, and Nashik, condemning Awhad’s actions. A case was filed against Awhad at Bundgarden police station in Pune under Indian Penal Code sections 153A and 295. NCP (SP) president Jayant Patil defended Awhad, emphasizing his dedication to Ambedkar’s teachings and his apology for the incident. State minister Chhagan Bhujbal also defended Awhad’s intentions, urging understanding and stating that criticism solely based on political opposition is unjust. Meanwhile, protests against Awhad took place in Nashik, with BJP and MNS members accusing him of insulting Ambedkar’s followers. Demonstrations included burning an effigy of Awhad and organizing rallies in various Nashik locales.
