852 DR. BABASAHEB AMBEDKAR : WRITINGS AND SPEECHES
is the real basis of caste, whereas according to the strict notions of Hindu law and the Shastras, birth has no place in it whatsoever, we find that Hindu society is not what it used to be. Are we now going to introduce all those laws of Manu, for instance, that a Shudra cannot read the Shrutis etc.? Now we have finished with them.
So far as the criticism goes that the Code is very bad, so bad that it should apply only to Hindus, Muslims, etc., I am very sorry I have to challenge that statement and fight it. Some of the principles which are put in the bill are exceptionally good, so good that I would like to have this Hindu Code. As I stated. I am not an opponent of every clause and word in it. I want that all the good principles, which are consistent with the principles that we have accepted in our society today, should be passed in this House. I am opposed to certain provisions and I shall have occasion to speak about them at the proper time. But as regards the statement that it is so bad that it should not apply to Hindus or Muslims, etc. I for one do not agree with that statement.
I was considering the question whether it should apply to any but Hindus. Three or four motions have been made, by Mr. Sarwate, Mr. Indra Vidyavachaspati and Mr. Jaspat Roy Kapoor had something to say about it. In regard to them my submission is that, if it were possible to do so I would have myself supported those motions. But may I humbly ask the non-Hindus in the House if they like this proposal ? They do not like it.
Shri J. R. Kapoor (Uttar Pradesh) : The non-Hindus have already been brought within its scope.
Pandit Thakur Das Bhargava : It is entirely wrong to suggest that. So far as Muslims, Christians, Parsis and Jews are concerned, it specifically say that the law shall not apply to them. Where is my friend’s suggestion that it has already been applied to Muslims Christians, Parsis and Jews ?
Shri J. R. Kapoor : I said non-Hindus excepting Muslims, Christians etc.
Mr. Chairman : Let there be no interruptions.
Shri R. K. Chaudhuri (Assam) : On a point of information, Madam, may I know whether the Hindu Law is not applicable even now to the Muslims, Bohras and Cutch-Memons ?
Pandit Thakur Das Bhargava : My friend has anticipated me. The present Hindu Law as we understand it does apply to many classes