In a fierce critique of the Andhra Pradesh government, Jay Bhim Rao Bharat party leader J.D. Shravan Kumar has accused the ruling coalition of failing to protect Dalits over the past 18 months. Speaking to the media in Vijayawada, he expressed his anger over the ongoing violence against Dalits and questioned the absence of Home Minister Anita during these incidents.
Kumar highlighted the stark contrast in the government’s response when violence occurs between different communities, particularly pointing out the swift actions taken when members of the Kapu and Kamma communities are involved. He challenged the government, asking, “If violence against Dalits occurs, will you even respond? Would you remain silent if it happened to another community?” His remarks underscore the deepening concerns over systemic discrimination and lack of accountability.
The leader recounted specific instances of brutality, including a recent attack where a 60-year-old man was allegedly killed and then disposed of in a lake. He also criticized the government for not arresting a Jana Sena leader who made derogatory comments about women during the Sankranti celebrations, questioning the selective enforcement of the law. Kumar expressed frustration over the trend of public humiliation for those arrested, stating that if individuals are proven innocent after investigations, will their dignity and honor be restored?
During his address, Kumar did not shy away from naming political figures, including Pawan Kalyan, and the controversial new laws he proposed. He emphasized that the ongoing violence, particularly against Dalits, has reached alarming levels, with 276 reported incidents involving Dalit women in the last year and a half of coalition governance. He criticized the police’s complicity, stating that accessing justice often requires the approval of local MLAs, a situation he deemed unacceptable.
Furthermore, Kumar called for immediate legal action against those responsible for the murder of a man named Salman, demanding a case be filed against MLA Yarapathineni Srinivas Rao, who is allegedly implicated in the crime. “If justice is not served for Salman’s family, we will take legal actions in court,” he warned, emphasizing the importance of accountability in governance.
As Kumar rallied for support, he reflected on the broader implications of the government’s inaction. He warned that if the ruling party does not change its ways, it risks facing severe backlash from the Dalit movement. He urged Nara Lokesh, a prominent political figure, to take the issue seriously, cautioning that if he does not change his approach now, he may find himself without allies in the future.
In closing, Kumar lamented the current state of affairs in the state, where violence against marginalized communities is rampant, and government officials appear indifferent. He called for a reassessment of the political climate, insisting that power is not everlasting, and urged leaders to reflect on their responsibilities toward justice and equality for all citizens.
