8 May 2024: Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) president Lalu Prasad has voiced support for extending reservation benefits to Muslims, accusing the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of seeking to abolish reservations by scrapping the Constitution.
Speaking to reporters at the legislative council premises, Prasad emphasized the importance of reservations for marginalized communities, including Muslims. His remarks come amidst ongoing debates surrounding reservation policies and their potential impact on electoral dynamics.
The veteran politician, who attended a swearing-in ceremony where his wife Rabri Devi took oath as a Member of the Legislative Council (MLC), criticized the BJP’s stance on reservations. He accused the party of attempting to undermine the constitutional provisions that ensure representation and empowerment for disadvantaged groups.
Prasad’s comments reflect broader concerns within the political landscape regarding social justice and inclusive governance. The issue of reservations has been a contentious topic, with various parties expressing differing views on how to address the needs of historically marginalized communities.
In response to allegations that an opposition coalition, if elected to power, would divert reservations from Other Backward Classes (OBCs) to Muslims, Prasad affirmed the right of Muslims to benefit from reservation policies. He dismissed claims of reservation reallocation as fear-mongering tactics employed by the BJP during election rallies.
The RJD leader also criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s election slogan “abki baar 400 paar” (this time, over 400 seats), suggesting that Modi’s prospects are diminishing. Prasad expressed confidence in the electoral outcome favoring his party and its allies.
As discussions surrounding reservation policies continue to shape political discourse, Prasad’s stance underscores the importance of addressing social inequalities and ensuring equitable opportunities for all sections of society.
