Akhilesh Yadav's Odisha Visit: A Push for Social Justice

Synopsis
Akhilesh Yadav visited Odisha promoting social justice and addressing caste census demands. Engaging with Congress leaders, he emphasized equality and the Constitution's importance while critiquing the BJP government's approach. His discussions included outreach to marginalized communities and strengthening political alliances.
Key Takeaways
- Akhilesh Yadav's visit to Odisha focused on social justice.
- He discussed the importance of a caste census.
- Criticism of the ruling BJP regarding constitutional integrity.
- Emphasis on support for oppressed communities.
- Engagement with like-minded parties to strengthen alliances.
Bhubaneswar, April 16 (NationPress) The President of the Samajwadi Party, Akhilesh Yadav, made a significant visit to Odisha on Wednesday, where he engaged in discussions with prominent Congress leader Srikant Jena about various pressing issues, particularly the intensified efforts towards realizing the rule of social justice in the region.
Akhilesh's trip sparked speculation about potential new political dynamics in the state, particularly concerning the growth and consolidation of the Samajwadi Party in Odisha.
“The moment has come to declare that to establish ‘the rule of law’, we must prioritize the ‘Rule of social justice’. The true essence of establishing the 'rule of social justice' is the genuine realization of the spirit of equality as enshrined in the Constitution,” stated Akhilesh Yadav.
During a media interaction later that day, he emphasized that the Samajwadi Party has been a longstanding advocate for the caste census.
He noted that initially, the Congress party was resistant to this demand.
“Now, it appears that even the Congress has come around to supporting the call for caste-based enumeration. We are dedicated to upholding the Constitution by aligning with the oppressed and marginalized,” he asserted.
Akhilesh further remarked that if the Constitution is undermined, democracy also suffers.
In a subtle critique of the ruling BJP, regarding the celebrations of B.R. Ambedkar’s birth anniversary on April 14, he indicated, “We notice that those who have harmed the Constitution the most are the ones who participate in Ambedkar Jayanti celebrations.”
The Samajwadi leader also pointed out that the injustice faced by backward communities in education and employment in Odisha is staggering.
“Individuals from backward communities are being denied their rightful entitlements in education and employment sectors in Odisha. We will engage with them, raise awareness, and support them,” he advocated.
Commenting on the concept of a double-engine government in Odisha, he quipped, “Even with a double engine, Uttar Pradesh is heading off track. Whether Odisha's engine is local or controlled from Delhi remains ambiguous.”
Akhilesh also criticized UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath regarding remarks about the violence in Murshidabad, West Bengal.
“The BJP has been implicated in every significant riot in UP. We must avoid religious provocations and inflammatory rhetoric,” he urged.
The former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh also held discussions with leaders from various like-minded parties, including CPI, CPM, NCP, and RJD, to further bolster the INDIA alliance in Odisha.