Yogi Adityanath Launches Scathing Attack on Opposition Parties Over Dalit Issues
In a politically charged address marking the 135th birth anniversary of Dr. BR Ambedkar, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday launched a fierce critique of the Samajwadi Party and Congress, accusing them of hypocrisy and historical injustices against Dalits. The event, held in Lucknow, saw the CM highlight the infamous 1995 State Guest House incident and other alleged failures while outlining his government's initiatives for social justice.
Historical Grievances and Political Accusations
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath directly targeted the Samajwadi Party by resurrecting the controversial 1995 VVIP Guest House episode, where SP members allegedly attacked BSP chief Mayawati following her withdrawal of support to their government. "The Samajwadi Party had revealed its true character through its brutal treatment of women in the State Guest House episode," Yogi declared, emphasizing this as evidence of SP's disregard for Dalit leaders.
Turning his attention to Congress, the CM accused the party of attempting to marginalize Dr. Ambedkar during his lifetime. "Congress tried to keep Babasaheb away from elections and conspired to prevent him from receiving the Bharat Ratna," he stated, adding that despite now carrying copies of the Constitution, Congress's historical actions must be scrutinized.
Questioning Opposition Credibility and Announcing Development Projects
Yogi Adityanath challenged opposition parties to substantiate their pro-Dalit claims with concrete actions. "Those who were shedding crocodile tears for Dalits should explain what they have actually done in Ambedkar's name and what inspiration they have taken from his ideals," he asserted, criticizing selective outrage and reminding the audience of past threats to demolish Dalit memorials.
The CM detailed several accusations against the Samajwadi Party, including:
- Altering names of districts and institutions named after Dalit icons
- Depriving Dalits and the poor of land rights
- Obstructing implementation of central schemes like Swachh Bharat Mission and PM Awas Yojana
In contrast, Yogi highlighted his government's efforts, such as:
- Virtually inaugurating foundation work for beautifying and conserving 75 statues of Ambedkar across all districts
- Developing infrastructure at sites associated with social reformers like Sant Ravidas and Maharshi Valmiki
- Granting land ownership rights to 4,356 Tharu tribal families in Lakhimpur Kheri
- Providing land titles to Dalit Hindus who migrated from Bangladesh in 1971 after a 55-year wait
Comprehensive Development Initiatives for Social Justice
The Chief Minister announced significant projects aimed at promoting Ambedkar's legacy and social justice. "The government is developing the Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar International Cultural and Research Centre in Lucknow," he revealed, noting that the first phase is nearly complete with the second expected by July. This center will feature research facilities, hostels, an auditorium, and a grand statue.
Yogi also mentioned the development of 'Panch Teerth' sites associated with Ambedkar by the central government and infrastructure improvements at various locations, including roads and a ropeway at Maharshi Valmiki's site in Chitrakoot. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for naming the Ayodhya international airport after Maharshi Valmiki, framing these actions as part of a broader commitment to Dalit empowerment.
The event began with the CM paying floral tributes at Ambedkar's statue in Hazratganj before participating in the Dr Ambedkar Mahasabha programme, where he released a souvenir and emphasized the government's dedication to realizing Ambedkar's vision of "Ek Bharat-Shreshtra Bharat" and ensuring justice for the deprived and poor.
