Rahul writes to PM Modi, seeks Bharat Ratna for BSP founder Kanshi Ram

Rahul Gandhi urges PM Modi to posthumously award Kanshi Ram the Bharat Ratna, honoring his contributions to social justice and empowerment.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (March 15, 2026) to confer the Bharat Ratna on Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) founder Kanshi Ram posthumously, asserting that this would honour the aspirations of millions of people who continue to view him as a symbol of empowerment and hope.

In a letter to PM Modi, Mr. Gandhi said Kanshi Ram transformed the nature of Indian politics and through his movements, raised political awareness among Bahujans and the poor.

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"As we commemorate the birth anniversary of Kanshi Ramji today and reflect on his legacy and contributions, I write with a request that he be awarded the Bharat Ratna posthumously," the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha said in the letter.

"Kanshi Ramji transformed the nature of Indian politics. Through his movements, he raised political awareness among Bahujans and the poor. He reminded them that their vote, voice and representation are important and that this country belongs to everyone equally," he added.

Mr. Gandhi asserted that because of Kanshi Ram's efforts, many people who had never considered entering public life began to see politics as a means to achieve justice and equality.