Kamal Gavai Withdraws from RSS Centenary Event: Defending Ambedkarite Legacy Amid Controversy

Chief Justice of India, BR Gavai (File).

Amravati (Maharashtra):

Kamal Gavai, the 84-year-old mother of Chief Justice of India Bhushan Gavai, announced on Wednesday her decision to withdraw from attending a centenary event of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) scheduled for October 5.

In an open letter, she explained that her decision came in response to the controversy and criticism that emerged after news of her planned attendance as chief guest was published.

Mrs. Gavai clarified that she had initially accepted the invitation because she "harbours good wishes for everyone" and welcomes all people regardless of their affiliations.

"Following the publication of news about the program, many began criticizing and making allegations against not only myself but also late Dadasaheb Gavai," she wrote, referring to her husband, former Bihar Governor R.S. Gavai.

She emphasized that both she and her late husband have lived according to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's ideology, with Dadasaheb dedicating his life to the Ambedkarite movement. "Sharing our ideology on platforms with different viewpoints is important and requires courage," she noted in her letter.

Mrs. Gavai pointed out that her husband deliberately participated in programs organized by groups with opposing ideologies to raise awareness about issues affecting disadvantaged communities. While he attended RSS events, she stressed that he never embraced their Hindutva philosophy.

"Had I appeared on the dais at the October 5 RSS function, I would have presented the Ambedkarite ideology," Kamal Gavai wrote.

However, the barrage of accusations directed at both her and her late husband's legacy, along with attempts to "malign her because of one program," left her deeply saddened and ultimately led to her decision to withdraw from the RSS centenary celebration.

She also mentioned that she is currently unwell and undergoing medical treatment.