UP Assembly Clash Over Dalit Religious Event Permissions Sparks Debate
A heated and contentious exchange erupted in the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly on Wednesday, centering on the state government's policies regarding permissions for religious events, jayantis, and public processions, particularly those associated with Dalit ideologues and leaders. The debate, which unfolded during the Question Hour, saw Samajwadi Party (SP) MLA from Jasrana, Sachin Yadav, directly challenge the administration's approach, alleging systemic irregularities and discrimination.
SP MLA Raises Concerns Over "Simple and Safe Policy"
Raising the critical issue, MLA Sachin Yadav pressed the government to consider formulating a "simple and safe policy" to address what he described as persistent administrative hurdles and irregularities in religious programs and shobha yatras organized by Dalit communities. Yadav's questioning was pointed and specific, focusing on the procedural barriers faced by these groups.
Key demands presented by Yadav included:
- The removal of the condition requiring "presence in conventional police registers" as a prerequisite for obtaining permissions.
- Ensuring that "every section" of society, without discrimination, is allowed to observe jayantis and conduct processions honoring their leaders.
- Simplifying the overall permission-granting process to make it more accessible and less bureaucratic.
- Decentralizing approvals for village-level processions, allowing local authorities to grant permissions to enhance efficiency and reduce delays.
Yadav emphasized that these measures are essential to uphold the constitutional rights of Dalit communities and ensure equitable treatment under state policies.
Government Firmly Rejects Allegations of Discrimination
In a swift and firm rebuttal, State Parliamentary Affairs Minister Suresh Khanna categorically rejected the allegations of discrimination leveled by the SP legislator. Minister Khanna defended the government's existing framework, asserting that all permissions are granted in accordance with established laws and protocols designed to maintain public order and safety.
Khanna stated that the government's policies are uniform and non-discriminatory, applying equally to all communities and religious events across Uttar Pradesh. He highlighted that the requirement for police verification is a standard security measure, not targeted at any specific group, and is crucial for preventing potential law and order issues during large gatherings.
The minister's response underscored the administration's stance that current procedures are both necessary and fair, aiming to balance religious freedoms with overarching public safety concerns. This exchange has ignited a broader political debate, reflecting ongoing tensions and discussions around social equity, administrative transparency, and the rights of marginalized communities in the state's governance framework.
