Bhagyadari Is “Caste Identity” In Practice

This refers to N.G. Uke’s article, “BSP’s Bhagidari principle benefited only Chamars” (DV Nov. 16, 1999 p.11). As far as UP is concerned the dominant Dalit subcaste is Chamar. The Chamars fought for their liberation and benefited only after their hard work, dedication and sacrifices of Kanshi Ram. Bhadant Arya Nagarjun Surai Sasai said that Kanshi Ram was the topmost Budhist of India. He is a true Ambedkarite. He is raising hopes of the Dalit-Bahujans. The Mahar subcaste, which was once in the forefront of all Dalit movement, is today in disorder. We salute those Mahars who are active and take part in all result- oriented purposeful social movements. The Mahars worship Babasaheb, garland his statue. But in practice they are far removed from the burning thoughts of Babasheb (salute those who are exceptions). They could have easily ruled at least Maharashtra if they had been genuine Ambedkarites. See the plight of the Bahujans in Maharashtra. They have become toothless tigers. Powerless. Most of the BSP office bearers are Mahars (Budhist). BSP is a poor man’s party, no money no glamour. Workers went from door to door in UP villages on cycles. And yet the BSP won 14 seats. Editor V.T. Rajshakar is right when he said “If BSP had the money and media support it would have bagged over 30 seats in UP alone”, So, BSP is not a mere Dalit party, particularly of the Chamars. This is what the manuwadi jaundiced journalists often say. Sorry to note that our own Dalit friends are repeating this shit. Not only the Backward Castes and Muslims supported it but in some places even fair- minded upper castes backed BSP. This is a welcome development. Every jati must ensure its share in proportion to the population of its jati. This is the principle behind Bhagidari and also the Editor’s “caste identity” thesis. Till now I have not seen any Brahmin criticising Atal Behari Vajpayee but I am pained to note that there are many manuwadi Dalits who did not recognize and appreciate the presence of a tall Bahujan leader, an oasis in the vast desert of Aryawart.