UP Minister Responds to Akhilesh: Allegations of Dalit Insults
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Synopsis
Uttar Pradesh's social welfare minister Asim Arun strongly criticized Akhilesh Yadav, accusing him of perpetuating divisive politics and insulting Dalits during his tenure. Arun highlighted the BJP government's initiatives for Dalits while refuting allegations of rising atrocities against them.
Key Takeaways
- Asim Arun labels Akhilesh Yadav as divisive.
- Accusations of SP's neglect towards Dalit rights.
- Yogi government’s scholarship distribution far exceeds SP's.
- Minister reveals discriminatory police practices under SP.
- SP accused of political manipulation for gains.
Lucknow, April 22 (NationPress) Uttar Pradesh's social welfare minister Asim Arun responded sharply to Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav on Tuesday, labeling him a ‘symbol of divisive politics.’ This comment followed Yadav’s criticism of the state government regarding the murder of a Dalit youth in Prayagraj.
“During his tenure, the SP leader seized every chance to abuse and insult the Dalit community. Their disdain for backward classes is why they have been pushed to the margins,” stated the Minister for social welfare and tribal affairs, targeting the SP chief directly.
Asim Arun’s remarks were provoked by Akhilesh Yadav’s assertion that Uttar Pradesh has become the top state for atrocities against Dalits.
“The BJP government is not only stripping away reservations and freedoms, but now those protected by power, including strongmen and goons, are taking lives,” the SP chief alleged, in response to the recent tragic incident involving the murder of a Dalit youth.
Attempting to counter the SP’s criticism of the Yogi government, the UP minister described it as a 'coordinated political strategy' by the rival party, accusing them of sowing discord among communities along caste and communal lines for ‘political advantage.’
“They aim to poison public discourse and benefit from dividing the communities. In contrast, the Yogi government is focused on combating societal evils and fostering a better quality of life,” remarked the former IPS officer.
He further indicated that the Samajwadi Party’s concern for the underprivileged only emerged after they were ousted from power.
“When Akhilesh Yadav held the Chief Minister position, he altered the names of districts and institutions honoring Dalit icons, including Bhim Nagar and Mahamaya Nagar,” he noted.
In addition, the UP minister made ‘revelations’ about biased police postings under the SP administration, claiming, “Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe officers were not assigned to police stations and tehsils, despite existing regulations. During their rule, Dalit rights were systematically violated.”
He also compared the scholarship distribution under the Yogi government to previous administrations, highlighting discrimination against a specific community during SP governance.
He disclosed that this year, the state government allocated over Rs 4,000 crore in scholarships, benefiting 56 lakh students.
“In contrast, during the SP governance, the number was only 34 lakh, and numerous scams emerged later,” he added.
