On Wednesday, RJD national president Lalu Prasad asserted that Dalit leader Kanshi Ram played a crucial role in awakening the Dalits and marginalized sections of society, contrasting this with his criticism of Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati, whom he accused of submerging their voices.
Speaking at a gathering at the RJD office to commemorate the birth centenary of former Bihar Chief Minister Jannayak Karpoori Thakur, Lalu Prasad emphasized Karpoori Thakur's role as a leader of social justice in the state.
With the Lok Sabha elections approaching, Lalu Prasad accused the BJP of invoking Karpoori Thakur's name to garner votes from Dalits and other deprived sections of society. He asserted that the posthumous conferment of Bharat Ratna to Karpoori Thakur was assured, and the RJD would ensure it happens. Lalu Prasad also mentioned the party's previous demands for Bharat Ratna for Kanshi Ram and Ram Manohar Lohia, stating that it is their right, not a plea.
Highlighting Kanshi Ram's contributions, Lalu Prasad claimed that Kanshi Ram awakened Dalits and backward caste individuals, while criticizing Mayawati for supposedly stifling their voices.
Addressing concerns about potential alliance breaks, Lalu Prasad expressed confidence, urging the party to strengthen and intensify its efforts. He reminisced about implementing the Mandal Commission in the country and recalled the challenges faced during that period, emphasizing the need for party workers to connect with every household, particularly reaching out to the poor, Dalits, and backward caste communities to fortify the party's foundation.
(With Agency Inputs)
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