Focusing on the upcoming Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections, BSP supremo Mayawati organized a large-scale event to demonstrate her organizational strength and influence within the Dalit community.
Lucknow: Ahead of the Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections, BSP supremo Mayawati organized a major rally in Lucknow. The rally was held at Kanshiram Sthal, where she bly attacked the opposition and appealed to the Dalit community to unite. During this event, Mayawati also clearly expressed her views on the ‘I Love Mohammed’ controversy and issues related to religious harmony.
What Did Mayawati Say at the Rally?
From the stage, Mayawati stated that no one should interfere with deities. She emphasized that politics should not be run on the basis of religious sentiments, and communal tension should not be created over issues like ‘I Love Mohammed’. The BSP supremo said, "It is very important to form a BSP government. Efforts are being made to divide the Dalit community's votes. One must be wary of selfish people in society." She also raised questions about the EVM system, stating that complaints of tampering have continuously surfaced.
Mayawati also targeted the SP (Samajwadi Party). She stated that during the Emergency, the Constitution was crushed, and Baba Saheb Ambedkar was prevented from reaching Parliament. Additionally, his right to the Bharat Ratna was denied. Mayawati alleged that when the SP is in power, Kanshiram and Dalit interests are neglected. She asserted that the Dalit community should remain aware and organized to ensure reservation and equal rights.
The ‘I Love Mohammed’ Controversy
This controversy originated in Kanpur, UP, and gradually spread across several states. The issue is related to banners put up by the Muslim community on the occasion of Barawafat (Mawlid). Some Hindu organizations deemed them objectionable and filed an FIR. The Muslim community claims that these banners were a way to express love and respect for Prophet Mohammed and had no intention of inciting communal violence or provocation. Police stated that the matter is not just about the banners but also involves pitching tents in unauthorized locations and tearing down religious posters.
