Row over ‘disrespect to Ambedkar portrait’ on Lalu Prasad birthday: SC panel asks Bihar officials for action taken report

A political storm is brewing in Bihar after a viral video from Lalu Prasad Yadav’s 78th birthday celebration triggered outrage. The clip shows a supporter placing Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s portrait near Lalu’s feet. Many Dalit groups and opposition leaders saw this act as a sign of disrespect. The incident has now drawn legal attention and fueled political tension ahead of Bihar’s upcoming elections.

🎥 The Video That Stirred the Outrage

On June 11, 2025, a video from Lalu’s birthday party surfaced online. In the footage, a supporter places Ambedkar’s portrait close to Lalu’s feet. Although Lalu doesn’t react in the clip, the act offended many viewers. In Indian culture, placing anything at someone’s feet often symbolizes submission. Doing this with Ambedkar’s image has deeply upset members of the Scheduled Castes community.

As the video spread quickly on social media, hashtags criticizing the RJD patriarch began trending. Activists and opposition leaders accused him of allowing disrespect toward India’s Constitution-maker.

⚖️ Scheduled Caste Commissions Take Action

Two major SC panels have stepped in. The Bihar State SC Commission issued a notice to Lalu, asking for a written explanation by June 26. Meanwhile, the National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) also sent notices to Bihar’s Chief Secretary and DGP. The NCSC has demanded a detailed action report within 15 days.

Both commissions have warned of consequences. If they do not receive satisfactory answers, they may act under Article 338 of the Constitution. The issue could even result in an FIR under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.

🗣️ Political Fallout: Reactions From All Sides

The BJP has strongly condemned the act. Party leaders called it a “clear insult” to Babasaheb Ambedkar. They have demanded a public apology from Lalu and hinted at legal steps. BJP’s Bihar unit chief Samrat Choudhary called the act “unpardonable.”

Leaders from the NDA also joined the attack. They accused Lalu and his party of double standards. They claim that the RJD often uses Dalit symbols during elections but disrespects them in practice.

On the other hand, the RJD has denied any wrongdoing. Its leaders claimed that the video was being misinterpreted. They suggested the controversy was part of a BJP plot to mislead voters.

“Laluji has always stood with the oppressed. This is just an attempt to stir controversy before the polls,” said an RJD spokesperson.

JD(U) MLA Gopal Mandal, a government ally, defended Lalu too. He suggested that the leader may not have noticed the act due to his age or health. Mandal reminded reporters that Lalu has long supported Dalit causes.

⚖️ Legal Risk for Lalu and His Team

The situation is serious. If authorities register a case under the SC/ST Act, it could have major legal consequences. These laws carry strict penalties. Moreover, an FIR could drag the RJD chief into a legal battle at a politically sensitive time.

The NCSC has mentioned possible action if the state does not respond. This includes constitutional powers to summon officials or recommend prosecution.

So far, Lalu has not issued any statement. But sources say the RJD legal team is reviewing options. A clarification or expression of regret might be in the works.

🗳️ What This Means Ahead of Elections

The controversy comes at a crucial time. Bihar’s assembly elections are due next year. Dalits make up a large part of the voter base. Any disrespect toward Ambedkar could shift their support.

The BJP plans to highlight the issue during its campaigns. Party workers may use it in speeches, posters, and social media campaigns. They aim to present the RJD as anti-Dalit.

For the RJD, the stakes are high. If the party handles this poorly, it could lose support among Scheduled Caste voters. But if it responds with sensitivity, it might still control the damage.

🔍 Final Thoughts

This controversy is a reminder of how powerful symbols can be in Indian politics. For many, Dr. Ambedkar is not just a historical figure—he represents justice, equality, and dignity. Disrespecting his image, even unintentionally, creates deep emotional reactions.

As legal deadlines approach, pressure is mounting. The RJD must act quickly and wisely. A thoughtful response could ease tensions. But silence or denial might cost them politically.