Compromising with the Constitution, secularism is not in national interest: Mayawati advises govts over Bengal violence

Lucknow: Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati on Monday advised both the Centre and state governments to safeguard the country’s secular identity, uphold the dignity of the Constitution, and act firmly against post-election violence in West Bengal.

In a post on X, Mayawati said India enjoys a unique and respected identity across the world because of the Constitution framed by Babasaheb Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar, which is rooted in the principle of secularism and equal respect for all religions.

The country’s humanitarian values ensure protection of life, property and religious freedom for followers of every faith, adding that governments as well as citizens must adhere to these constitutional principles, she said.

“India’s Constitution acts as a protective shield against anti-India propaganda abroad. Therefore, it is the responsibility of both the Central and state governments to ensure that nothing is done, or allowed to happen, that raises unpleasant questions about the country and its governance,” she said.

Referring to the continuing debate over post-election violence in West Bengal, the BSP supremo said governments should become more alert and deal strictly with anarchy, especially in light of directions issued by the High Court.

She said it should be a matter of serious concern if any government faces allegations of narrow politics, religious discrimination, caste hatred or bias.

Mayawati further said that any existing or new laws brought in for public safety and larger public interest must be implemented equally for people of all religions.

“To uphold the dignity of the Constitution and the rule of law, legal provisions must be enforced without religious or caste-based discrimination, prejudice or hatred,” she said, adding that such an approach would strengthen public confidence that governments are working in the interest of all communities.

The BSP chief also said the country was facing difficult social, economic and political conditions, and governments should focus on resolving these pressing issues instead of diverting public attention through what she termed a “destructive image-building exercise”.

She warned that such attempts would only deepen the crisis rather than resolve the country’s problems, which would not be in the interest of either the nation or its people.

IANS