Dalits in India
It is not clear what purpose is being served by passing a resolution on the plight of dalits by the United States House of Representatives ( India Abroad,August 3). The plight of dalits was recognised by the founders of the Indian Republic and reservation in government services, and later, in educational institutions were provided for in the Indian Constitution itself. The affirmative action on behalf of African-Americans started here in the USA much later, after Reverend Martin Luther King started fighting for it with his battle hymn, " We shall overcome one day.....". By the way, Reverend King got inspiration from Mahatma Gandhi and his 'satyagraha' – non-violent fight for Truth.
India had a Dalit President, now a Dalit Chief Justice, many Dalit central and state government ministers. One of the chief architect of the Indian Constitution itself was a Dalit – Dr.B.R.Ambedkar . I do not know how many governments in the world today - including the United States - have their under-privileged sections represented in the top decision-making positions. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayavati is aspiring to be the Prime Minister of India. Is ther any chance for an African-American to become the President of USA ?
USA would have served the cause of freedom and democracy as well as the cause of Dalits in India, if only it had not bolstered the military machine of Pakistan over the last few decades. India was attacked by Pakistan at least thrice with American military equipment – 1965, 1971 and in 2001 in Kargil. If USA had given the same amount money to Pakistan for its educational and economic development, both Pakistan and India would have had a better social indicators especially in health and education including the Dalits. But, alas, US priorities are different !
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