Ambedkar’s legacy vs rise of self-styled Babas, Brahminical priesthood, Bania corporates

By Vidya Bhushan Rawat* 

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar is not just a historical figure for the Bahujan Samaj; he is a guiding light, a father figure whose contributions shape their daily lives. Beyond philosophy or politics, Ambedkar’s legacy is rooted in fostering a scientific temperament and a spirit of inquiry. These principles must become integral to our lives and those of our children, especially in an era where superstitious Brahmanical values are being repackaged as Indian culture. Such blind faith makes us vulnerable to exploitation and undermines our well-being. From Buddha to Kabir, Raidas to Nanak, Phule to Periyar, and Ambedkar to Bhagat Singh, India’s great thinkers urged us to question, not accept, what is presented to us.

The rise of self-styled "Babas" reflects a revival of Brahmin-dominated priesthood, backed by Bania-led corporates, reducing other communities to mere spectators in their power games. This caste-class dominance fears the growing assertion of marginalized groups seeking their rightful place in public life. Ambedkar’s thought transcends mere rationalism, guiding us toward humanism rooted in Buddha’s principles of Karuna (compassion) and Maitri (fraternity). He envisioned equality and liberty achieved not through violence but through fraternity—a vision incompatible with Manuwadi prejudice that discriminates based on birth. While Ambedkar rarely used the term "Manuwad," he frequently critiqued Brahmanism as the root of social inequity.

Ambedkar’s humanism is our path to liberation. Yet, the state must also play its role by upholding constitutional values, strengthening directive principles, and bolstering the public sector to ensure equal opportunities for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and backward classes. A secular, neutral state apparatus, free from favoring any faith, is non-negotiable.

Today, the Bahujan Samaj faces multiple assaults. The Mahabodhi Temple in Gaya remains under Brahmanical control; it must be handed over to Buddhists for management. The reservation system is undermined by backdoor entries like lateral recruitment, often favoring Brahmin-Bania elites. The systematic weakening of public sector institutions—banks, railways, airlines—hurts marginalized communities, while the private sector lacks fair representation. Universities and schools are being reshaped to serve dominant caste interests, with curricula sidelining rationalist voices and introducing Brahmanical rituals as "tradition."

This is a moment to unite diverse communities. Our differences are real, but our shared struggles and aspirations are greater. The Constitution, a monumental document of reconciliation, binds us together. Its framers—despite ideological differences—collaborated without compromising their principles. We must do the same, making constitutional values our social and cultural foundation. That would be the truest tribute to Baba Saheb Ambedkar.

#JaiBhim

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*Human rights defender