Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati has come down heavily on both central and state governments over incidents of caste-based violence during the birth anniversary celebrations of Dr BR Ambedkar. In a series of tweets, she condemned the attacks on Dalit processions and the disrespect shown to Ambedkar’s statues, particularly highlighting a gruesome incident in Madhya Pradesh’s Morena district.
Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), BSP supremo Mayawati expressed deep concern over what she called “shameful and condemnable” acts of caste violence that marred Ambedkar Jayanti celebrations in several Indian states this year. She cited instances where Ambedkar statues were dishonored and peaceful processions were attacked by miscreants, leading to serious injuries and fatalities. Referring specifically to Madhya Pradesh’s Morena district, Mayawati pointed out that a Dalit man was killed and several others were injured during an Ambedkar Jayanti procession. She strongly criticized the state government for its failure to take swift and strict action against the culprits, alleging a clear display of insensitivity and negligence.
“These events expose the casteist character of the ruling regimes,” she wrote, urging both the Centre and the state governments to act sternly against such atrocities. She also demanded justice for the Dalit victims and strict punishment for those responsible.
Mayawati further accused mainstream political parties of using Ambedkar’s legacy to woo Dalit voters while ignoring their plight in practice. “These governments and parties organise grand events in Ambedkar’s name only to mislead Dalits for votes,” she said. She advised the Dalit community to be wary of the “dual-faced” parties that exploit their sentiments for electoral gain.
Calling for an end to caste-based injustice and atrocities, the BSP leader urged immediate and strong legal action against the perpetrators to ensure such incidents are not repeated.
Her tweets have sparked sharp reactions on social media, with many supporting her call for justice, while others criticised the politicisation of a tragic issue.