Is Punjab AAP Exploiting Dalits for Political Gains?
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Synopsis
In a scathing critique, former National Commission for Scheduled Castes Chairperson Vijay Sampla accuses the AAP government in Punjab of exploiting Dalit issues for political advantage. From unpunished atrocities to broken promises, Sampla highlights the glaring issues facing the Dalit community under current leadership.
Key Takeaways
- Allegations of political exploitation of Dalit issues by AAP.
- Concerns over unpunished atrocities against Dalits.
- Broken promises regarding Dalit representation in government.
- Legal and social implications of caste-based remarks.
- Calls for accountability and action from the AAP leadership.
Chandigarh, Oct 13 (NationPress) Former Chairperson of the National Commission for Scheduled Castes, Vijay Sampla, asserted that the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) administration in Punjab is merely manipulating Dalit issues for political gain, while actually safeguarding individuals who perpetrate injustices against them and infringing upon their fundamental rights.
BJP leader Sampla informed the media that AAP MLA Manjinder Singh Lalpura, who was found guilty and sentenced to four years for assaulting a Dalit woman, has not been expelled from the party or disqualified from the Assembly.
“In fact, he enjoys special privileges even while incarcerated.” During the March 2024 Assembly session, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann reportedly used casteist remarks directed at a Dalit MLA, thereby insulting the entire community, Sampla remarked.
In April 2024, Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar also made casteist comments during a rally in Patti.
Eventually, both Bhullar and the Chief Minister were compelled to issue public apologies. Former Union Minister Sampla recalled that prior to the assembly elections, AAP's national leader Arvind Kejriwal had vowed to appoint a Dalit Deputy Chief Minister, a commitment that was seemingly abandoned once they assumed power.
He stated that the Punjab and Haryana High Court criticized the state government for delaying its share of post-matric scholarship funds, which adversely affected the education of Dalit students.
In the tragic Majitha spurious liquor incident in May 2025, Sampla noted that 16 out of the 30 victims were Mazhabi Sikhs. “Their families have not been compensated or provided with jobs. In another incident in Ludhiana, the SC/ST Act was not enforced despite the presence of Dalit victims.”
Since AAP took charge, Sampla noted that statues of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar have been vandalized multiple times in Amritsar and Phillaur.
“The government also halted the Rs 25 crore allocated for the Guru Ravidas Bani Study Centre, which has hurt the feelings of the Ravidassia community.”
He questioned the AAP leadership's silence regarding these atrocities. In September 2023, the son of AAP leader Dinesh Dhal was allegedly involved in the abduction and brutal beating of a Dalit youth.
“Yet, the police failed to file a report and pressured the victim to settle,” added Sampla.
Point of View
It's vital to approach this story with a balanced perspective. While accusations of political exploitation by the AAP are serious, it's equally important to recognize the complexities involved in the socio-political landscape of Punjab. The ongoing discourse surrounding Dalit rights requires careful examination and responsible reporting.
NationPress
13/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What allegations did Vijay Sampla make against AAP?
Vijay Sampla accused the AAP government of exploiting Dalit issues for political advantage while protecting those who commit atrocities against them.
What was the response of the AAP regarding the allegations?
The AAP has not publicly addressed these specific accusations made by Vijay Sampla.
How has the AAP government impacted Dalit rights in Punjab?
Critics, including Sampla, argue that the AAP government has failed to protect Dalit rights and has made casteist remarks.
