Will take forward struggle to get Dalits their rights: Nitish Kumar

LUCKNOW: Signalling new political equations in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar today said a lot of struggle is needed to ensure that Dalits get their rights and if required he will take it forward.

The JD(U) chief said his government has implemented a quota within quota in Bihar for 'maha Dalits', but still a lot needs to be achieved.

"At present Dalits are deprived of their rights in judicary and many other sectors. A lot of work still needs to be done," he said.

Over speculation of an alliance of JD(U) with smaller parties, Nitish said, "We are in favour of creating an organisation, which instead of working for itself, will work for the people."

Asking the leader of Bahujan Samaj Swabhiman Sangharsh Samiti, popularly known as BS-4, RK Chaudhary to struggle till the time Dalits get justice, he assured support of his party.

BS-4 was formed by BSP founder Kanshiram Ram as an organisation of Dalit officers and employees.

"We will march ahead together and if got a chance, we will work together," he said.

Nitish clarified that Chaudhary had invited him for today's rally even before he had quit BSP.

Raising the issue of a liquor ban in Uttar Pradesh, he said Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav should concentrate on his 'samajwad' ideologues -- Ram Manohar Lohia, Jai Prakash Narain, Bhim Rao Ambedkar, Sant Ravidas and Kabirdas and impose a complete ban on liquor.

Nitish claimed it has been stated in the Constitution that all states should impose a ban on intoxicants.

About the confusion over the rally venue, Chaudhary said the district administration had said they would not be able to provide security to Kumar in case of a heavy turnout.

"But we assured the administration of providing security at our own risk after which the permission was granted," he said.

The rally, which was to start at 1 PM, was delayed by nearly three hours because of the confusion.

Chaudhary also accused BSP supremo Mayawati of ruining the party brigade.

"Party founder Kanshiram had once said, Mayawati was obsessed with collecting money. The self-proclaimed heir of Kanshiram, Mayawati ignored the dedicated BSP cadre and started auctioning tickets, which has led to resentment within the party," he alleged.