'Baba Saheb Stood for Sarva Dharma and Sarva Samaj, I Can't Bear His Humiliation,' Says UP Govt Employee Who Resigned Over Amit Shah's Statement

Agra- At a time when the country is fiercely debating Mandal versus Kamandal politics and Brahmin versus Bahujan issues, the resignation of Rakesh Kumar Sharma, a government employee in Uttar Pradesh, has come as a significant and unexpected development.

58-year old Sharma, an employee at Jal Kal Department, tendered his resignation in protest against Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s remarks on Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, describing them as deeply offensive. His resignation letter has since gone viral, garnering widespread praise, particularly from the Bahujan community, for his principled stand.

Sharma is a billing clerk stationed in Zone 3 of Agra’s Tajganj ward, stated that the comments deeply disturbed him, leading to his decision to step down from government service.

In his resignation letter dated December 19, Sharma wrote, “I do not want to work anymore.” When speaking with The Mooknayak, Sharma elaborated on the profound impact of the incident, explaining that it had “shaken” his confidence in continuing his service under the government.

Before joining the government service, Sharma said he had worked as a journalist for Amar Ujala from 1979 to 1989. His journalistic pursuits were followed by a 35-year-long tenure in the Jal Kal Department. Reflecting on his decision to resign, Sharma remarked, “Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was the architect of the Indian Constitution, and it is due to this Constitution that I secured a job and was able to serve for so many years. The government honored Baba Saheb with the Bharat Ratna, and yet a senior minister who is next after the PM of the country, uses humiliating language against him. This is intolerable. I cannot serve anymore.”

Sharma’s respect for Dr. Ambedkar goes beyond personal admiration. He sees the national icon as a symbol of justice and equality for all communities. “Baba Saheb did not stand for any particular caste or community. He stood for Rashtra Dharma,” Sharma stated. He emphasized that his resignation is a stand not only for Ambedkar’s ideology but also for humanity and in obeyance to Rashtra Dharma.

“No Regrets, Only Resolve”

With still 2 more years left for retirement, when asked if his decision was impulsive, Sharma’s response was resolute. “Never,” he asserted. “I feel a deep regret that such things are happening in our country even 75 years after the Constitution was enacted. But I have no regrets about resigning. My decision stems from a place of conviction, not impulsiveness.”

Sharma’s determination remains unshaken despite familial responsibilities and societal pressures. He lives with his wife and daughter. However, Sharma stated, “It is my job, and whether to work or resign is solely my decision. No one has the right to interfere.”

Sharma revealed that he has been facing significant pressure from the local BJP unit and RSS cadres to retract his resignation. Opposition parties have also reached out to him. However, Sharma remains steadfast, describing himself as “a non-political person” committed solely to Ambedkar’s ideology. “I truly respect and stand by Baba Saheb’s principles. My decision to quit is final,” he reiterated.

“A person should not be judged by his or her caste or religion. Baba Saheb Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar was honored with the Bharat Ratna, and using indecent language for him is an insult to a national hero of the country.”

Sharma said he has yet to receive the acceptance of his resignation letter and hence he is continuing his duty. "If I do not receive any reply, I will decide further course of action," he stated.

Sharma’s act of protest has sparked conversations across the political and social spectrum, highlighting the enduring reverence for Dr. Ambedkar’s contributions to India.