‘We are vigilant on the concerns of the marginalised’

Sanjay Paswan.

I DISMISS all apprehensions regarding the wrapping up of the Planning Commission. If we look at the larger scenario, we will all agree that the functioning of the Commission has been conventional, even if not irrelevant. As an institution, it is not adept in handling the economic challenges of present times. But we are closely monitoring the shape that the new institution that replaces the Commission will take.

We will ensure that the mandate the Commission had with regard to vulnerable groups such as Muslims, Dalits and Adivasis are retained with new mechanisms to address the concerns of these people. We will keep in mind that the three important concerns of marginalised communities—security, dignity and prosperity—are addressed by the new institution through skill enhancement and other programmes of economic empowerment. The criticism of the decision broadly comes from socialist/communist groups.

But right now, we have no reason to doubt the intentions of the Prime Minister even if one may not support the government. The Prime Minister proved this by rejecting the WTO regulations to reduce subsidies. The Prime Minister is clear on fronts that affect the poor directly. I see no reason to worry. Let me assure you that we in the BJP’s Scheduled Caste Morcha are vigilant and we will not let down our own people.

As told to Ajoy Ashirwad Mahaprashasta