Rally for Dalits and Minorities Cancelled in Delhi Amid BJP Conspiracy Allegations

Congress leader Udit Raj alleges that the BJP conspired to cancel a rally for Dalits and minorities at Ramlila Maidan, claiming it threatened social unity. Despite the cancellation, participants plan to uphold constitutional values.

Congress leader Udit Raj claimed on Saturday that the Confederation of Dalit, OBC, Minorities, and Adivasi Organisations (DOMA) rally at Ramlila Maidan was cancelled due to a conspiracy by the ruling BJP. This followed a letter from a BJP leader to the Delhi Police. Raj, who chairs DOMA, stated that the rally aimed at protecting the Constitution and votes was scheduled for Sunday but was cancelled under BJP pressure.

Despite the cancellation, Raj announced plans to take a pledge to safeguard the Constitution in front of B R Ambedkar's statue. He expressed surprise that a major party like the BJP would write to the police to halt a social organisation's rally. "This conspiracy was discovered today," he told reporters, explaining that permission for the rally was revoked following a complaint from Shashank Shekhar Tripathi, coordinator of BJP's Kashi region legal cell.

Allegations of Unconstitutional Claims

Tripathi's complaint argued that the rally could incite societal division and send an inflammatory message. It also claimed that asserting the Constitution is in danger is unconstitutional. The complaint further alleged that the event might lead to public disorder. Raj pointed out that there is no election in the ward where Ramlila Maidan is situated, yet the Model Code of Conduct was cited as a reason for cancellation.

Raj emphasised their commitment to continue campaigning for constitutional protection. He announced plans to take a pledge at Ambedkar Bhawan on Rani Jhansi Road. "We will definitely hold a larger rally in the future," he assured. Raj criticised the decision not to allow the rally at Ramlila Maidan, stating it shows that Bahujan Samaj cannot even fight for its rights.

The incident highlights tensions between political parties over public gatherings and their implications. The cancellation has sparked discussions about freedom of assembly and expression within India's democratic framework. As events unfold, stakeholders are keenly observing how such issues are addressed by authorities and political entities.

With inputs from PTI