Owaisi Launches Scathing Attack on BJP-RSS Over Bharat Ratna Proposal for Savarkar
AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi delivered a sharp critique of the BJP-led government and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) on Monday, responding to recent comments by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat advocating for the Bharat Ratna to be awarded to Hindutva ideologue V D Savarkar. Owaisi asserted that the ruling party "would not hesitate to award the country's highest civilian honour even to Mahatma Gandhi's assassin, Nathuram Godse."
Historical Context and Gandhi Assassination Reference
Owaisi's remarks emerged following Bhagwat's statement that conferring the Bharat Ratna on Savarkar would enhance the prestige of the award. The Hyderabad MP referenced the J L Kapur Commission report on Gandhi's assassination, noting that Justice Kapur had identified Savarkar as a conspirator in the murder. "A person involved in Gandhi's assassination—you are seeking the Bharat Ratna for him. Congratulations. A time will come when the BJP may even award it to Godse," Owaisi declared during a rally in Mahabubnagar as part of the Telangana municipal polls campaign.
Contrast with Historical Freedom Fighters
Without explicitly naming Savarkar, Owaisi highlighted the RSS's push for the Bharat Ratna for a figure who had submitted six mercy petitions to the British authorities. He contrasted this with the story of Maulvi Alauddin, the then imam of Makkah Masjid in Hyderabad, who was arrested for attacking the British Residency during the 1857 First War of Independence. Alauddin was sent to the Cellular Jail in the Andaman Islands, popularly known as 'Kala Pani,' where he later died.
Owaisi questioned the Sangh over who the first prisoner at the Cellular Jail was, asserting it was Maulvi Alauddin, not a member of the RSS. This historical reference served to underscore his argument about recognizing true freedom fighters versus controversial figures.
Political Implications and Broader Critique
The AIMIM leader's comments reflect ongoing political tensions surrounding historical narratives and national honors in India. By linking the Bharat Ratna proposal to Gandhi's assassination, Owaisi aimed to challenge the BJP-RSS narrative on patriotism and sacrifice. His speech emphasized a broader critique of what he perceives as selective glorification of historical personalities by the ruling establishment.
This incident highlights the deepening political divides over historical interpretation and the symbolic significance of awards like the Bharat Ratna in contemporary Indian politics. Owaisi's remarks are likely to fuel further debate as the Telangana municipal elections approach, with historical legacy becoming a key campaign issue.
