Former VHP leader arrested in Chennai for hurling casteist slurs at Ambedkar
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Chennai: A speech filled with casteist slurs that targeted the architect of the Indian Constitution, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, led to the arrest of the former Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) leader RBVS Manian under various sections of the SC-ST Act.
The Chennai police apprehended Manian after a video in which he can be heard making objectionable remarks against Ambedkar that went viral on social media.
In the video, Manian referred to Dr. Ambedkar, often regarded as the architect of the Indian Constitution, as a "clerk, typist, and proofreader." He claimed that Dr Ambedkar did not create the Constitution himself but was merely involved in the transcription process.
These remarks led to public condemnation and triggered a complaint that prompted the Chennai police to register a case against Manian. He now faces charges under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including 153 (promoting enmity between groups) and 505 (inciting violence), as well as relevant provisions of the SC-ST Act.
The incident has brought the issue of caste-based discrimination and hate speech to the forefront once again, prompting calls for greater sensitivity and respect for the contributions of figures like Dr B.R. Ambedkar in shaping India's democratic foundation.