A remark made in the Lok Sabha during a discussion on Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) has stirred controversy, with Bharat Adivasi Party (BAP) MP Rajkumar Roat demanding an apology, terming it offensive to the tribal community. Roat, representing the Banswara-Dungarpur constituency in Rajasthan, expressed his displeasure, calling the remark an insult to all tribal members. The dispute arose during a debate under Rule 193, where the Union Home Minister accused Roat of indulging in “vote-bank politics.”
Reacting strongly, Roat took to social media, initiating a campaign with the hashtag #Amit_Shah_Must_Apologise. He criticized being labeled a “Naxalite” for voicing concerns about alleged killings in anti-Naxal operations, emphasizing the broader implications beyond personal offense. Referring to Parliament as the nation’s “grandest Panchayat,” Roat invoked Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s Constitution, questioning the legitimacy of treating community concerns raised in Parliament as criminal acts.
Earlier, on March 30, Union Home Minister Amit Shah had censured statements suggesting no development in tribal communities. He accused Congress leaders of perpetuating this narrative for political motives, highlighting the underdevelopment of tribal regions despite the party’s prolonged governance. Shah reiterated the constitutional pathway to combat injustice, emphasizing the significance of dialogue and debate over violence for conflict resolution.
Shah emphasized that while disparities and lack of progress may persist, the government remains dedicated to ensuring justice for all without succumbing to coercion. He underscored the Constitution’s role in addressing grievances through democratic means, advocating for the exploration of all peaceful avenues before considering extreme actions.
