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Journalism of Courage
Shahid Siddiqui, the national vice president of the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD), announced that he had resigned from the primary membership of the party on Sunday, flagging the “attack on Indian Democracy” in the wake of action against sitting chief ministers and Opposition party.
“Yesterday, I have sent my resignation letter from the membership of Rashtriya Lok Dal and the post of National Vice President to National President Jayant Singh. Today, when India’s Constitution and democratic structure are in danger, remaining silent is a sin. I am grateful to Jayant ji but with a heavy heart I am forced to distance myself from RLD. India’s unity, integrity, development and brotherhood are dear to all. It is the responsibility and duty of every citizen to save it,” Siddiqui said.
He also gave two reasons behind his resignation. Firstly, he said that he had initially hesitated to resign immediately, as he welcomed the Bharat Ratna accorded to Chaudhry Charan Singh Ji. However, Siddiqui felt compelled to take a stand against the party’s merger despite his appreciation for the honor bestowed upon Singh.
The RLD has tied up with the BJP ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.
Secondly, Siddiqui expressed reservations about the recent attacks targeting elected Chief Ministers and Opposition parties, particularly in light of the upcoming elections. He emphasized that such actions an “assault on Indian democracy and the foundational institutions that uphold it”.
The timing of Siddiqui’s resignation coincides with the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections, with voting scheduled for multiple phases.
The state of Uttar Pradesh, a significant political battleground, will witness polling spread across several dates – April 19, April 26, May 7, May 13, May 20, May 23, and June 1. The culmination of this electoral process will see the counting of votes on June 4, marking a critical juncture in Indian politics.
