New Delhi - Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi criticized the Opposition on Saturday for "spreading lies" and engaging in "undemocratic talks" to stall parliamentary proceedings. Manjhi's statement comes amidst ongoing protests by the INDIA bloc demanding an apology and resignation from Union Home Minister Amit Shah for his remarks on B.R. Ambedkar made during a parliamentary speech commemorating the 75th anniversary of the Constitution's adoption.

Defending Shah, Manjhi told IANS that the Home Minister did not use derogatory language but rather cautioned the Opposition against invoking Ambedkar's name superficially. Manjhi emphasized that Shah urged the Opposition to honor Ambedkar's legacy through concrete actions.

The Union Minister lauded the efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government in upholding Ambedkar's legacy, citing the Bharat Ratna award, the creation of five memorials, and the reclamation of Ambedkar's mortgaged heritage property in England.

Manjhi accused the Opposition of lacking substantive issues and resorting to lies and undemocratic practices to obstruct Parliament. He stated that the Opposition's accusations of disrespecting Ambedkar are unfounded while the government is actively working to honor his vision.

Meanwhile, the INDIA bloc intensified its protests on Friday, organizing nationwide marches against Shah's remarks, which they deemed "derogatory" and "unacceptable." The alliance also criticized the recent FIR against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi as a "diversionary tactic" by the BJP.

The BJP has maintained that the Opposition's protests lack merit, while the INDIA bloc remains adamant in its demand for an apology from Shah, further escalating the political standoff.