Akhilesh Yadav visits Odisha, advocates for rule of social justice

IANS April 16, 2025 254 views

Samajwadi Party President Akhilesh Yadav made a significant political visit to Odisha, engaging with local leaders and advocating for social justice. During his interactions, he strongly criticized the BJP's approach to constitutional values and highlighted the need for protecting marginalized communities' rights. Yadav emphasized the importance of a caste census and claimed that backward communities in Odisha are systematically deprived of their legitimate opportunities. His visit appears strategically designed to expand the Samajwadi Party's influence and strengthen the INDIA alliance in the state.

"The time has arrived to say that to establish 'the rule of law', we today require the 'Rule of social justice'" - Akhilesh Yadav
Akhilesh Yadav visits Odisha, advocates for rule of social justice
Bhubaneswar, April 16: The Samajwadi Party President Akhilesh Yadav on Wednesday visited Odisha and held discussions with senior Congress leader Srikant Jena over a range of issues, especially the escalation of efforts towards achieving the rule of social justice in the state.

Key Points

1

Akhilesh meets Congress leader Srikant Jena to discuss social justice

2

Advocates for backward community rights in Odisha

3

Criticizes BJP's constitutional approach

4

Strengthens INDIA alliance regional strategy

Akhilesh’s visit gave rise to speculations over new political equations in the state with the expansion and strengthening of the Samajwadi Party in Odisha.

“The time has arrived to say that to establish ‘the rule of law’, we today require the ‘Rule of social justice’. The real meaning of the establishment of the 'rule of social justice' is the true establishment of the spirit of equality as per the Constitution,” said Akhilesh Yadav.

Later during interactions with the media persons here on Wednesday, Akhilesh said that the Samajwadi Party had long fought over the issue of caste census. He also added that the Congress party initially didn’t show any support for this demand. “Now, even the Congress party has accepted the demand for caste-based enumeration. We are committed to protecting the Constitution by standing with the oppressed and marginalised,” he asserted.

Akhilesh said that when the Constitution is weakened, democracy weakens with it. In a veiled attack on the ruling BJP over the celebrations of B.R. Ambedkar’s birth anniversary on April 14, he said, “We see the people who damaged the Constitution most, participate in the Ambedkar Jayanti more.”

The Samajwadi President also claimed that the injustice done to the backward communities in education and employment in Odisha is beyond imagination. “The people from the backward communities are deprived of their genuine rights in the education and employment sectors in Odisha as well. We will reach out to them, make them aware and bring them along,” said Akhilesh.

Speaking on double-engine government in Odisha, he remarked, “Even with a double engine, UP is derailing. Odisha’s engine, whether local or controlled from Delhi, remains unclear.”

Akhilesh also criticised UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s comment on the Murshidabad violence in West Bengal. “The BJP has been involved in every major riot in UP. We must stay away from religious provocation and rhetoric,” he urged.

The former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh also engaged in talks with leaders of several like-minded parties- CPI, CPM, NCP, and RJD- to further strengthen the INDIA alliance in Odisha.

Reader Comments

P
Priya K.
Interesting to see SP expanding beyond UP! Social justice is definitely needed in Odisha where caste disparities are still prevalent. Hope this brings real change 🤞
R
Rahul S.
While I appreciate the focus on social justice, I wish politicians would spend more time presenting concrete plans rather than just rhetoric. What specific policies is SP proposing for Odisha's backward communities?
A
Anjali M.
The "double engine" comment made me chuckle 😄 Politics aside, it's good to see opposition leaders working together. Strong opposition is healthy for democracy!
S
Sanjay P.
As an Odia, I welcome any party that focuses on our state's development. But will they sustain this interest after elections? That's the real question.
M
Meena R.
Caste census is long overdue! Glad to see more parties supporting this. Our constitution promised equality but we need data to make it reality.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Your email won't be published


Disclaimer: Comments here reflect the author's views alone. Insulting or using offensive language against individuals, communities, religion, or the nation is illegal.

Tags:
Akhilesh Yadav Samajwadi Party Odisha Politics Social Justice INDIA Alliance Caste Census BJP
You May Like!