In a recent statement, Congress leader Hussein Dalwai condemned the demand for awarding the Bharat Ratna to Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, asserting that Savarkar undermined the Indian independence movement by collaborating with the British government. Dalwai expressed concerns about Savarkar's ideological influences, which he argued were aligned with fascist regimes such as those in Germany and Italy. He highlighted the contradictions in honoring a figure who he claims had a detrimental impact on India's struggle for freedom.

Dalwai further elaborated on Savarkar's controversial legacy, mentioning that the leader was not only aligned with colonial powers but also espoused views that could be seen as extreme and divisive. He posited that awarding such an individual the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honor, would send the wrong message about India's commitment to democratic values and the principles of justice and equality. This comment reflects broader historical debates in India regarding the interpretation of nationalist figures in the context of colonial resistance.

The opposition to Savarkar's Bharat Ratna claim is part of ongoing political discourse in India, particularly among Congress leaders who have sought to reposition historical narratives around figures associated with both colonial collaboration and extremist ideologies. The discussion raises important questions about how India reconciles its past with its present values as a democracy, and the implications of recognizing individuals with controversial legacies in post-independence India.