Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati has voiced her support for the Bharat Bandh, calling it a response to what she describes as a “conspiracy against reservation.” The day-long nationwide strike has been organized by various Dalit and Adivasi groups in protest against the Supreme Court’s recent ruling on the sub-classification of Scheduled Castes (SCs).
In a statement on X, Mayawati expressed her concerns over the Supreme Court’s August 1, 2024 verdict, which allowed states to make sub-classifications within SCs for the purpose of reservation. She claimed that the ruling, along with actions by political parties like the BJP and Congress, could undermine and eventually eliminate the reservation system.
Mayawati emphasized the importance of the Bharat Bandh in raising awareness about this issue and urged participants to protest peacefully. She also reminded the public that the right to reservation for SCs, STs, and OBCs is a constitutional one, secured through the efforts of Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar, a key figure in the fight for social justice.
The Bharat Bandh has been called by 21 organizations across the country, all of which are united in opposition to the Supreme Court’s decision. These groups argue that the ruling could harm the foundational principles of the reservation system by creating divisions within the SC community.
In its ruling, the Supreme Court stated that states have the constitutional authority to make sub-classifications within SCs to ensure that the most socially and educationally backward castes receive adequate representation in government jobs. However, the court stressed that such sub-classifications must be based on “quantifiable and demonstrable data” of backwardness, rather than being influenced by political motives.
Mayawati’s support for the Bharat Bandh highlights the growing tension around this issue, as various political and social groups mobilize to protect the existing reservation framework.
