NEW DELHI: A sharp attack on the rigidity of Hindu society by Bharat’s Law Minister, Dr Ambedkar, followed by noisy protests from … orthodox Hindu members marred the adoption by Parliament today [Sept 20] of the first clause in the Hindu Code Bill listing persons to whom it would apply.

Dr Ambedkar, who was piloting the Bill, in the course of its defence at the end of the seven-day debate … made certain references to the relationship between Sita and Ram, making orthodox Hindus writhe in pain and give out expression of horror at what in their view amounted to sacrilegious remarks. The issue was compromised by the Minister agreeing to expunge the remarks… .

Several amendments moved with a view to making the Bill optional or to make it apply to all communities, including Muslims, were either voted down by the House or withdrawn. Defending the Bill, Dr Ambedkar said either Hindu society had to accept the changes or would perish. “Whatever might happen Hindu society will never give up its social structure. It is for this reason that law must come in to enable the society to move. …”

Published in Dawn, September 21st, 2026