Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) president Mayawati has condemned in strong words the Samajwadi Party (SP) over its controversial politics after SP MP Ramji Lal Suman's comments on 16th-century Rajput emperor Rana Sanga. The party was accused of playing "dirty politics" by her and warned against disrespecting any community for political reasons.
Utilizing social media platform X on Thursday, Mayawati said:
"The filthy politics that SP is playing by using its Dalit leaders for political gain is wholly unacceptable. It is only harming them. Dalits should be careful about such tricks. The Agra incident is highly troubling.
She went on to criticise the SP for creating fissures:
"It is not acceptable for SP to disrespect any community to fulfill its own agenda. They defame one group in order to give favor to the other. It goes against peace and harmony in society, and it is simply not acceptable."
Rana Sanga Remarks Spark Violence in Agra
Mayawati’s comments come in response to the controversy triggered by SP leader Ramji Lal Suman, who referred to Rana Sanga—the 16th-century Rajput ruler of Mewar—as a "traitor" for allegedly inviting Babur to defeat Ibrahim Lodi.
The statement ignited outrage, leading to violent protests outside Suman’s residence in Agra on Wednesday. Unidentified individuals reportedly pelted stones, shattered window panes, and vandalized vehicles parked outside his home.
Spilling the beans on the situation, Agra Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Sanjeev Tyagi asserted the commotion:
"Some Karni Sena members were upset over the comments made by SP MP Ramji Lal Suman. To retaliate, they walked up to his house, hurled stones, and shattered window glasses. Some people have been detained, and an investigation is ongoing. Some of the police personnel were also hurt in the process."
Akhilesh Yadav Accuses Yogi Adityanath of Violence
After the attack, Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav criticized the attack and accused Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath of being involved.
"Ramji Lal Suman's attack is regrettable and needs to be condemned. He is an experienced Dalit MP and yet his house was attacked while the Chief Minister was in the district. The attack occurred with Yogi Adityanath's approval," Yadav charged.
Historical Context: Who Was Rana Sanga?
Rana Sanga, or Sangram Singh I, was the ruler of Mewar from 1508 to 1528 and is highly regarded for his valour and sacrifices. His role in the Battle of Khanwa (1527) against Babur is an important part of Indian history.
Suman's comments have led to widespread outcry, with numerous calls for a public apology and action against him.
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