The Opposition used a private member resolution moved by Samajwadi Party MP Vishambhar Prasad Nishad to buttress its argument that the Centre possesses an “anti Dalit” mindset.
The resolution, which demanded an amendment to the Constitution so that members of the SC/ST category in one State may be treated similarly across the country to get the benefit of the reservation, was defeated in the House.
The Opposition alleged that even Social Justice Minister Thawar Chand Gehlot agrees that SC/ST communities face problems due to the lack of a pan-India list. The Opposition asked the Centre to accept the content of the resolution and demanded an assurance that the government would bring legislation to rectify the problems.
The resolution said people belonging to SC/ST or Denotified Castes were being deprived of facilities and concessions and were neglected because of the lack of a uniform reservation system in the entire country.
Gehlot reminded the House that there was a process laid out by Parliament for inclusion and exclusion of castes to the list of SCs, STs and OBCs. He urged Nishad to withdraw the resolution. “As per the procedure, the proposal for inclusion or exclusion of a caste in the list of SCs and STs is to be sent by the States. After approval by the Registrar General of India, and the SC or ST Commission, a Bill is prepared which is put up before the Cabinet and subsequently before Parliament for approval,” Gehlot said.
“You people are Dalit- virodhi (opposers),” Nishad said when the Centre maintained its stand that a law cannot be assured at the moment.