Caste-based rallies absurd in 21st century: Dr.JP

Lok Satta Party national President Dr. Jayaprakash Narayan today welcomed the Allahabad High Court initiative in staying caste-based political rallies.

In a media statement, Dr. JP hoped that the High Court notice to all major political parties in UP on the stay will eventually lead to a broad consensus among political parties on putting an end to mobilization of caste and sectional groups for political purposes.

Dr. JP pointed out that the primary duty of political parties is to promote harmony in society by reconciling interests of all groups. But there has been an increasing tendency among most parties to appeal to identity politics, especially caste or religious or regional groups. It is undoubtedly detrimental to harmony in society and the unity and integrity of the nation.

Trying to promote caste identity and divide people to garner voters is absurd in the 21st century, said Dr. JP.

Dr. JP said that Article 19 of the Constitution gives clear powers to the legislature and the Government to regulate peaceful assembly and demonstrations in the interests of the integrity of the nation and public order. Article 51 (A) outlines citizens’ duties which include respecting the Constitution, cherishing and following the noble ideals of the freedom struggle, and promoting harmony and spirit of common brotherhood among all communities and groups.

Therefore, any effort to regulate or prevent demonstrations by caste-based groups is perfectly legitimate and constitutional.