Republic Day Controversy in Nashik: Forest Officials Protest Over Minister Girish Mahajan Omitting Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar’s Name

Nashik, 27th January 2026: Republic Day celebrations in Nashik took a dramatic turn when Maharashtra Minister Girish Mahajan failed to mention Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution, during his official flag-hoisting speech. The omission prompted two female forest officials, Madhavi Jadhav and Darshana Saupure, to stage an immediate protest, a moment that has since gone viral on social media.

In footage circulating widely online, Madhavi Jadhav is seen confronting the minister passionately, saying, “Suspend me if you must, I will continue my work to earn my livelihood, but I will not tolerate forgetting Babasaheb’s name.” The protest drew attention to longstanding concerns among employees and Ambedkarite communities regarding perceived disregard for the social reformer’s legacy.

The issue received further attention from Prakash Ambedkar, leader of the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi, who personally contacted Madhavi Jadhav. He condemned the minister’s omission, warning that it could be punishable under atrocity laws. Ambedkar stated that if police fail to register a case, his organization will pursue legal action against Mahajan. He also criticized repeated attempts by the BJP and RSS to undermine Ambedkar’s legacy.

Following the protest, both officials were taken into police custody and brought to the Sarkar Wada Police Station. Their arrests sparked public outrage, with Ambedkarite supporters gathering at the station demanding legal action against Minister Mahajan under the Atrocities Act. Madhavi Jadhav has since filed a formal complaint, and Nashik police are investigating the matter.

Responding to criticism, Minister Mahajan described the omission as unintentional and expressed regret. He emphasized that there was no ill intent and highlighted his long-standing respect for Ambedkar’s ideology. Mahajan also tweeted: “Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar made us what we are. Preserving the thoughts of this great Bharat Ratna is part of BJP’s tradition. As a follower of Ambedkarite ideals, I have been celebrating Ambedkar Jayanti for 40 years through community activities and remain committed to his vision.”