When Centre and states stop fighting, when power goes to the majority deprived

It is a pity that 58 years after Independence, the Centre and states are entangled in problems, and that even today, 50 per cent live in abject poverty. If political powers had worked to uplift the plight of even two per cent of the poor people every year since Independence, we would have had no one living in poverty today.

In this country, the weaker sections constitute the vast majority of 85 per cent of society—from SC/STs, OBCs, MBCs, religious minorities—yet, they are consistently and studiously ignored and neglected. The caste system continues to divide and split them at all levels. Therefore, it is imperative and urgent to unite them, and transfer power into the hands of this majority. Bahujan Samaj means this—Bahu (majority), jan (people). Power belongs to this majority.

Yes, there are dozens of schemes launched in the name of the deprived people. But there is no action on the ground, it does not reach the target group. The reason why these schemes are never implemented is because of lack of vigilance, and corruption.

I believe it is crucial the schemes are monitored closely and the government institute monitoring cells at the ground level. I’ve also seen that funds meant for SC/STs are constantly moved to other sectors, which further robs them of their due. I’ve seen this myself—as chief minister of Uttar Pradesh thrice, I was forced to keep a strict watch on all the schemes I had announced, and would personally monitor the movement of funds to this sector.

I believe it is also crucial for state governments to ensure their people are not forced to leave their homes and seek greener pastures in others states. It is the Centre’s responsibility to help and fund states to develop their economic might, so that people can seek employment in their hometowns. Migration tears up families, breaks up homes and pulls the social fabric apart.

As a woman and a Dalit, I would like to tell the young women of this country to excel in every field and not lag behind men. It will have two beneficial effects—the children, the new generation, will be inspired by mothers; and, economic empowerment will ensure equality at home between husband and wife. This is good for the family and for the country.

Success is not difficult to achieve, but I must warn them that they will have to work hard, there will be all kinds of difficulties in their path, but they must not be afraid. They must have the courage and strength to go on. It is a lesson I learnt long ago.