Rahul Gandhi Promises to Raise Demand to Feature Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s Image on Indian Currency

By Neetha Bopaiah | Bangalore Mail

Leader of the opposition—Loksabha , Rahul Gandhi assures Lohia Thinkers Forum Chairman B.S. Shivanna that he will raise the demand to feature Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s image on Indian currency. A growing movement for inclusive national symbolism gains traction.

Bangalore | August 8, 2025 — In a move that could reshape India’s symbolic expression of its democratic values, Congress Supremo and Leader of the opposition —Loksabha , Rahul Gandhi has assured that he will take up the Lohia Thinkers Forum’s request to feature Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s image on Indian currency in the upcoming Parliament session.

The demand was personally handed over to Gandhi by Lohia Thinkers Forum Chairman B.S. Shivanna, who welcomed him at the Bangalore International Airport during his visit to Karnataka to attend a Congress rally targeting what the party describes as the “Voter Fraud and Election Commission Complicity”.

The Demand: A Call for Inclusive National Identity

The appeal from the Lohia Thinkers Forum is simple yet profound — that Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution and a lifelong champion of equality, liberty, and fraternity, be featured on Indian currency notes alongside Mahatma Gandhi.

Advocates argue that while Mahatma Gandhi’s image represents India’s freedom struggle, Ambedkar’s contributions symbolize India’s transformation into a constitutional democracy. Featuring his image on currency would serve as a daily reminder of India’s commitment to social justice, human rights, and egalitarian governance.

🗨️ In His Own Words: B.S. Shivanna Speaks to Bangalore Mail

“I admire the way Rahul Gandhi immediately recalled the email we had sent requesting Ambedkar’s image on currency. He responded very positively and assured that he would raise this in the upcoming Parliament session,”

said B.S. Shivanna, Chairman of Lohia Thinkers Forum

“Rahul Gandhi is the only hope of this country to implement secular democracy and take bold, innovative steps to shape a new India.”

A Thoughtful, National Appeal

The Lohia Thinkers Forum had earlier submitted a formal email to ,The President of India, The Prime Minister of India, Leader of opposition to the Loksabha, Leader of opposition to the Rajyasabha , ,The RBI Governor and all political parties requesting that Ambedkar’s image be incorporated into Indian currency design. The move has been described as not just symbolic, but necessary in a diverse democracy where marginalized communities continue to look to Ambedkar as their guiding light.

Political analysts note that such a gesture could also enhance civic consciousness and national unity by honoring not only the liberators of the country, but also its constitutional architects.

Rahul Gandhi’s Response: A Hopeful Signal

Rahul Gandhi’s prompt and affirmative response has infused fresh energy into the movement. According to Shivanna, Gandhi did not merely acknowledge the request — he promised to raise the issue in Parliament, giving it a potential national platform.

As Gandhi continues to champion inclusive and secular ideals in his Bharat Jodo campaign and beyond, this move fits into his broader narrative of empowering constitutional democracy and correcting historical imbalances in representation.

A Nation Waits: Will the Government Listen?

The demand to feature Dr. B.R. Ambedkar on Indian currency is not just about recognition — it’s about justice, legacy, and vision. As the request heads towards Parliament with the backing of Rahul Gandhi, expectations are rising. Civil society, academicians, and social reformers are watching closely.

If implemented, this change could mark a historic milestone in India’s journey towards true representation and equity.