Uttar Pradesh: Mayawati, the chief of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), has expressed support for the proposal to provide 33% reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies. However, she emphasized that women from Dalit and OBC communities should be given a separate quota within this reservation to ensure fair representation.
BSP’s Long-Standing Demand
Addressing a press conference, Mayawati stated that her party has consistently demanded 50% reservation for women in Parliament and state assemblies. She added that while the current proposal offers 33% reservation, BSP is backing it as a step in the right direction that could bring at least some positive change.
Criticism of Congress
Taking aim at the Indian National Congress, Mayawati said that the party failed to implement women’s reservation during its time in power. She accused Congress of now trying to create obstacles in the process by raising new demands, instead of supporting the reform wholeheartedly.
Tribute to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
Mayawati also spoke about the recent celebration of Ambedkar Jayanti across the country. She paid tribute to B. R. Ambedkar, acknowledging his contributions as the architect of the Indian Constitution.
Remark on Political Symbolism
She further remarked that several political parties have recently been using the color blue in their programs to attract Dalit voters. However, she asserted that the symbolic influence of blue truly resonates with BSP alone, and such attempts by other parties would not succeed.