Caste violence has got its first victim in the resignation of Anandiben Patel, Chief Minister of Gujarat. After Narendra Modi moved to Delhi political stability in Gujarat has been marred first by Patels’ protest for job reservation and second by atrocities on so-called Dalits. Violence against Dalits is not something specific to Gujarat. It is an Indian national problem for thousands of years, e.g. the heading “Dalit couple hacked to death in UP for Rs 15 (AV page 26, Aug 6 issue) is a case in point.
After Patels’ protest Narendra Modi said some words of wisdom to the Patel community. As regards violence against Dalits, so far he has maintained complete silence. Only time will tell if it is the right way forward. Perhaps he is discussing the situation with advisors and social experts and working out the right solution of the problem.
Since becoming Prime Minister Narendra ji has taken India to the highest level in world recognition of India. His achievement in two years has exceeded all expectations. By any measure he is fully and sincerely dedicated to economic prosperity for all Indians and political stability through fair and just democratic process. He is a political figure of unique quality. At this juncture of Indian history India needs him as much as he needs India. He should recognise that his continued commitment and dedication is possible only by his selfless service for his countrymen, not by his success in world politics. Dalit protests throughout India offer him an ideal opportunity to achieve this goal.
Jatindra Saha
Via Email
