DR. AMBEDKAR AND THE HINDU CODE BILL 701
therefore, kindly keep that point in view and see what can be done about it.
I may be permitted to say that the mode of obtaining public opinion was not perfect. I have already said that. It took us two and a half to three years to frame our Constitution and even though we have proceeded with the utmost caution, there are so many people who say it is no good. We consulted the Provincial Governments, supplied them copies of the Draft constitution and it was discussed there in their legislative assemblies and cabinets before they sent us their views. As you know, the Rau Committee never sent their draft report to any provincial Government. This is how it has come up. Hence, I wish to point out that the opinion was not taken fully and properly. The basis of your claim is also not sound. I am in no doubt on that score. Renuka Bahan remarked, ‘ Half of the country will be with it, but the report of the Rau Committee says Says.’ ‘ The society is very much divided.’ In view of this whom should I rely upon? Should I rely upon those who gave their report in 1947 after investigation or upon Renuka Bahan’s statement of 1944?
Mr. Deputy Speaker : Several other Members have yet to speak. Kindly conclude it.
Shri Gokulbhai Daulatram Bhatt : I shall be closing in five or seven minutes. I should say a few things more if you permit.
Mr. Deputy Speaker : Just as you please. You have taken thirty minutes already.
Shri Gokulbhai Daulatram Bhatt : I shall speak just a little more and then close very soon. I must say that it is the Hindu Community alone which would quietly take whatever blows you might give it. Look at the Muslim community. Did anyone have the courage to draw up a code for them? Why not unite the Shia and Sunni schools of thought? Could you just dare meddle with the law of the Christians ? Or could you dare tackle the Parsis? This poor community alone must stand every thing. Is it because you think it is dead? Dr. Ambedkar say he belongs to the Shudra caste. I hold him very high. Someone gives him the title of Muni (saint), another raises him to the rank of Rishi (sage) whereas he himself says he is a Shudra. Then let him be Vishwamitra. Whatever you are, but, of course, you are a wise man. Why nurse that inferiority complex? He says, ‘ Smritis ’ continued to be prepared. The Brahmans went on writing. What else had they to do after all? What is the work being done by your department?