Lucknow, March 17: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav have demanded that the Bharat Ratna be awarded to the founder of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), Kanshi Ram. In response, Uttar Pradesh Minister Aseem Arun criticized the Congress party, stating that it has consistently undermined the interests and aspirations of the Dalit community.
In an interview with a news agency on Tuesday, Arun claimed that the Congress has historically exploited the Dalit community for its political gain. He noted that once the Dalit community recognized this political manipulation, they distanced themselves from both Congress and the Samajwadi Party. He emphasized that the recent attempts by these parties to regain attention from the Dalit community are merely tactical maneuvers.
Arun highlighted the significant role Kanshi Ram played in mobilizing the Dalit community against oppression throughout North India. Riding on a bicycle, he called for unity against the injustices faced by Dalits, which eventually led to the formation of a National party known today as the BSP. However, Arun lamented that neither Congress nor the Samajwadi Party has genuinely considered the welfare and prosperity of the Dalit community.
He pointed out that when Kanshi Ram passed away, neither Congress nor the Samajwadi Party representatives attended his memorial. Furthermore, he recalled how, during Rahul Gandhi’s tenure, institutions named after Kanshi Ram were renamed, reflecting a lack of respect for his legacy.
Arun also mentioned that when Mayawati, following Kanshi Ram’s death, demanded the Bharat Ratna for him, Congress objected, stating that the award is reserved for individuals of national significance. He asserted that the Dalit community has since sidelined both Congress and the Samajwadi Party. Now that these parties find themselves politically marginalized, they are attempting to reconnect with the Dalit community. Arun firmly stated that this strategy will not benefit them.
Additionally, he addressed the issue of the current shortage of cooking gas cylinders, clarifying that the central government has assured sufficient energy supply. He expressed gratitude to the central government and the Ministry of External Affairs for ensuring that oil tankers are reaching their destinations without any shortages.
Arun concluded by questioning Congress’s motives, asking why they did not take steps to award Kanshi Ram the Bharat Ratna when they were in power. He asserted that the Dalit community is aware of their intentions and will not be misled this time.