Patna: The Bihar State Scheduled Caste Commission has issued a notice to Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav, seeking an explanation over allegations of disrespecting a portrait of Dr B.R. Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution. The Commission has given the veteran politician 15 days to respond, warning that failure to do so could lead to proceedings under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.
The controversy stems from a viral video circulated on social media, reportedly recorded during celebrations marking Lalu Prasad’s birthday. In the video, a party worker is seen presenting a framed photograph of Ambedkar to Yadav. The image appears to be placed near his feet, and he does not touch it. This act, the Commission claims, has caused offence not only to members of the Scheduled Castes but to “the dignity of the entire nation.”
“The Commission has taken cognisance of the social media footage which shows the image of Bharat Ratna Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar being treated with disregard during your birthday celebrations,” the letter states. “The act has hurt sentiments across the country. You are hereby directed to respond within 15 days, explaining why a case should not be registered under the SC/ST Act.”
The incident has sparked a political row in the state, with leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) criticising the RJD supremo and accusing him of disrespecting Ambedkar’s legacy.
Neither Lalu Prasad Yadav nor representatives of the RJD have publicly commented on the Commission’s notice as of Sunday evening.
