Caste Controversy and Political Frontlines in Uttar Pradesh

Caste Controversy Sparks New Political Frontlines in Uttar Pradesh

A recent controversial remark made by a Samajwadi Party (SP) Dalit MP against Rajput king Rana Sanga has ignited a political firestorm in Uttar Pradesh. This incident has brought the focus back on Dalit voters, a significant voting bloc comprising 21% of the state’s electorate, and has set the stage for a fierce political contest between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the SP.

In response to the controversy, the BJP, led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, has launched a 15-day “Ambedkar Samman Abhiyan” to promote welfare schemes aimed at Dalits. On the other hand, SP chief Akhilesh Yadav unveiled a statue of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in Etawah and highlighted the party’s legacy of uplifting marginalized voices, especially during the time of BSP founder Kanshi Ram.

Tensions escalated further after SP’s Rajya Sabha MP Ramji Lal Suman called Rana Sanga a “traitor,” leading to outrage among Rajput communities. The Karni Sena, a caste-based outfit advocating Rajput pride, retaliated by vandalizing Suman’s residence in Agra. BJP leaders condemned the remarks and accused the SP of trying to suppress the PDA (Pichhda, Dalit, Alpsankhyak) coalition, which the SP sees as crucial for its 2024 Lok Sabha aspirations.

Both parties are now vying for Dalit support amid rising tensions, with CM Yogi urging BJP cadres to engage directly with marginalized communities. Akhilesh Yadav, on the other hand, emphasized his party’s commitment to Dr. Ambedkar’s legacy and welcomed Daddoo Prasad, a founding member of BSP, into the SP.

As the BJP and SP intensify their community engagement efforts, the battle for Dalit votes could play a significant role in shaping the political landscape of Uttar Pradesh leading up to the 2024 general elections.