Mewani asks Dalits to reject BJP

Former Member of Parliament Dr Prakash Ambedkar on Sunday called upon Dalits and Muslims to make their voices heard if they wanted to protect and preserve the Constitution of India. Ambedkar, the grandson of late Dr BR Ambedkar – widely recognised as the architect of the Indian Constitution and a champion of Dalit rights – was speaking at the 'Save Constitution Rally' in the Shah Alam area that was organised by the Rashtriya Bahujan Hitrakshak Samiti (RBHS).

"They are on the move to bring changes in the Constitution, if this happens it will be big blow to the motive and intention of the Constitution to bring marginalised people into mainstream and give them a level playing field," Ambedkar said.

Jignesh Mewani, a young leader of the Dalit Adhikar Manch', also slammed the ruling party. "It is time to ensure the defeat of BJP, if we fail to do so in this election, will lose a big opportunity. Since the day BJP has come to power in the state and at the Centre, attacks on Dalits and minority community have increased," he said.

He also attacked the state government for failing to meet promises of land and jobs made to Dalit victims in the Una flogging case, and for not extending 7th Pay Commission benefits to safai employees.

WHAT THEY SAY

• Dr Prakash Ambedkar said: They are on the move to bring changes in the Constitution, if this happens it will be big blow to intention of the Constitution.