Jagadguru Rambhadracharya Calls for Repeal of SC/ST Act, Sparks Major Political Debate Amid Historic Ayodhya Event
New Delhi/Ayodhya, Nov 26 — Spiritual leader Jagadguru Rambhadracharya triggered a fresh political debate on Tuesday with his remarks suggesting that the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act should be repealed. His statement came on the same day Prime Minister Narendra Modi led a grand procession in Ayodhya for the historic Dhwajarohan Utsav at the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple.
Rambhadracharya’s comments, made during an interaction with IANS, have drawn sharp attention due to their timing and potential political undertones as multiple states gear up for upcoming elections.
Event Overview
The controversy began when Jagadguru Rambhadracharya stated that the SC/ST Act should be repealed, adding that the Vedas “do not mention Avarnas or Savarnas,” and that caste-based divisions were created by political leaders over time.
The SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, is a key law designed to protect Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes from discrimination, violence, and caste-based atrocities. It also provides for special courts, stringent punishments, and victim rehabilitation.
The spiritual leader also commented on electoral politics in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, as well as the absence of several opposition leaders at the newly built Ram Temple.
What Rambhadracharya Said
Speaking to IANS, Rambhadracharya said:
- “The SC/ST Act should be repealed. The Vedas do not mention Avarnas or Savarnas; these political leaders have initiated this system.”
- He further added that caste-based reservation should not exist, arguing instead for a system free from caste divisions.
On the 2027 Uttar Pradesh elections, he stated with confidence that the ruling party would retain power. Commenting on the Bihar Assembly election, where the NDA secured victory, he said that “the people of Bihar have risen above caste politics.”
Responding to questions about why some opposition leaders did not visit the Ram Temple, he remarked:
“It is unfortunate for those who did not go for the darshan, and fortunate for Prime Minister Modi.”
Ayodhya Turns Historic as PM Modi Leads Dhwajarohan Utsav
While Rambhadracharya’s remarks stirred debate, Ayodhya witnessed an emotionally charged day as Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in the holy city to lead the flag-hoisting ceremony at the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath welcomed the Prime Minister at the Saket College helipad. This was followed by a vibrant roadshow leading to the temple complex.
Scenes From Ayodhya
- Thousands of devotees lined the streets.
- People waved the Tricolour, BJP flags, and saffron flags bearing symbols of Lord Ram.
- Chants of “Jai Shree Ram” and “Modi-Modi” echoed through Ayodhya’s lanes.
- Flower petals were showered on the PM’s convoy.
- Security was tightened across the city due to massive footfall.
The Dhwajarohan ceremony is being seen as a major cultural milestone after the consecration of the Ram Mandir in January.
Reactions and Political Significance
Rambhadracharya’s remarks on the SC/ST Act are likely to spark strong reactions from political parties, Dalit organisations, and social groups across the country. The Act remains one of India’s most important protections for marginalised communities, and any call for its repeal tends to trigger nationwide debate.
Why His Comments Matter
- Rambhadracharya commands large influence across parts of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.
- His remarks may enter the political discourse ahead of the 2027 UP elections.
- His comments on caste and reservation touch a deeply sensitive issue in Indian politics.
- His praise for the BJP and PM Modi could be interpreted as a signal of alignment with the ruling dispensation.
Political observers note that such statements often shape narratives during election cycles, especially in states where caste coalitions determine outcomes.
Analysis
Rambhadracharya's statements reflect the recurring debate over caste-based policies in India. While the spiritual leader argues from a religious and philosophical standpoint, the SC/ST Act is rooted in the historical and social realities of discrimination.
The juxtaposition of his remarks with the massive Ram Temple celebrations in Ayodhya also highlights the current political climate, where religious symbolism and electoral strategies intersect frequently.
With UP elections still years away, his confidence in the ruling party’s return to power could strengthen political messaging among the BJP’s base, particularly in regions where he holds influence.
The absence of opposition leaders at the temple, and his criticism of it, further aligns with a political narrative that has polarized recent debates.
As Ayodhya witnessed a grand, emotionally charged day with PM Modi’s visit for the Dhwajarohan Utsav, Rambhadracharya’s remarks on the SC/ST Act have added a new and potentially polarizing layer to the political climate. With major elections on the horizon and caste equations continuing to shape electoral outcomes, his statements are likely to trigger discussion across political and social spheres.
Final Thoughts from TheTrendingPeople
Jagadguru Rambhadracharya’s call for repealing the SC/ST Act comes at a delicate moment in India’s social and political landscape. As the nation celebrates a historic event in Ayodhya, his remarks have reignited the debate over caste, reservation, and constitutional protections. The coming days will reveal how political parties respond — and how this shapes the narrative ahead of key elections.