Political parties preventing uplift of Dalits says MLC

Member of Legislative Council Motamma rued that Dalits continue to remain backward owing to “divide and rule” policy adopted by the political parties. Speaking after inaugurating “Mahila Parivarthan convention” here on Tuesday, Motamma said that Dalit bodies and leaders were not waging a unified struggle to secure rights for Dalits. “In a way, we are all responsible for the deprivation Dalits are suffering. It has still not been possible to bring them to the mainstream. It will not be possible for Dalits to identify themselves in society, like other castes, if they do not joint the mainstream,” she said.

Motamma said that Dalits should support such political parties which effectively implement policies meant for women and Dalit uplift. Development is a mirage unless people acquire knowledge and exercise discretion. The MLC said that women should ensure their children get education without fail. Only education can ensure bright future for children. It alters the course of Dalits’ life. The ideals and principles enunciated by Ambedkar should be followed in letter and spirit.

Indira Gandhi, during her tenure as prime minister brought 20-point programme for the welfare of common masses. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah should be lauded for his programme to extend loans to women at zero interest. Motamma said that Jayalalithaa had created history by launching a slew of measures which immensely benefitted the poor. She is an example for people-friendly administration.

The MLC said that recently, the state government has passed an order making SSLC mandatory for the posts of cooking assistants and helpers in government hostels. But, this was vehemently opposed in the Council and pressure was brought on the government to withdraw the rule.

Bahujana Sangha state president Nagaraj said that women had the strength to build society and they should provided education on a par with men. Dalit leaders T Vijay Kumar, Republican Party of India state youth cell president Ambareesh and others were present.