Kamal Gavai, the mother of Chief Justice of India Bhushan Gavai, has announced that she will not attend the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) centenary event scheduled for October 5. In a statement released from Amravati, she cited health issues and the controversy surrounding her potential attendance as reasons for her decision.
Kamal Gavai expressed her commitment to the Ambedkarite ideology, stating that she has always advocated for these views, even in the face of opposition. She reflected on her late husband, Dadasaheb Gavai, who actively participated in events of differing ideologies to promote the concerns of socio-economically backward communities. "He would purposely go to such events and speak on issues related to those from socio-economic backward strata," she noted.
Despite her husband’s participation in RSS events, she clarified that he never accepted Hindutva. Kamal Gavai mentioned that if she had attended the RSS function, she would have shared her views on Ambedkarite principles. However, she felt deeply hurt by the criticism and defamatory remarks directed at her and her late husband following the announcement of her invitation to the event.
At 84 years old and dealing with health challenges, Kamal Gavai concluded her statement by affirming her decision not to attend the event, emphasizing her desire to avoid further controversy. She stated, "I won't be attending the event, this much is true." Her remarks highlight her dedication to her beliefs while navigating the complexities of public perception and personal health.