NCP Leader Jitendra Awhad Apologizes for Tearing Posters with Dr. BR Ambedkar’s Image
30.05.2024: A recent controversy has emerged involving NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar) leader Jitendra Awhad. During a protest in Mahad, Raigad district, against the state government’s alleged plans to include verses from the Manusmriti in the school curriculum, Awhad was seen tearing posters that also featured an image of Dr. BR Ambedkar. This incident sparked outrage and demands for his arrest.
Jitendra Awhad, a former state minister, joined the protest to oppose the Manusmriti, an ancient text that supports the caste system and denigrates women. Awhad urged the public to reject any inclusion of the text in educational materials. However, the protest took an unexpected turn when videos surfaced showing him tearing posters that included Dr. Ambedkar’s photograph.
The rival Nationalist Congress Party, led by Ajit Pawar, criticized Awhad’s actions and called for his arrest. NCP spokesperson Umesh Patil accused Awhad of “spoiling the social environment” by tearing the posters, and questioned what disciplinary action Sharad Pawar would take against him.
In response, state BJP chief Chandrashekhar Bawankule announced plans for protests against Awhad. The BJP condemned the act and demanded accountability for the disrespect shown to Dr. Ambedkar.
Addressing the issue, Awhad released a video statement explaining that he did not realize Dr. Ambedkar’s image was on the posters. “I tore them without realizing this. I apologize publicly,” he said.
Meanwhile, Education Minister Deepak Kesarkar clarified that the Manusmriti verses were not part of the state’s curriculum, aiming to alleviate some concerns raised by the protesters.
This incident has heightened political tensions in Maharashtra, with various parties reacting strongly to Awhad’s actions. The situation continues to develop as public and political responses unfold.