‘Social awakening must for progress’

Nagpur: “Social awakening should be created in every village and town through education for progress,” said V Eshwaraiah, chairman of National Commission for Backward Classes, and former chief justice of Andhra Pradesh High Court, on Wednesday.

Speaking at a convention organized by Rashtriya

OBC

Mahasangh to mark the birth anniversary of Rajashree Shahu Maharaj at Shivaji Science College, Eshwaraiah said the major question today is how to unite.

Eshwaraiah gave three solutions to answer this question. First, a survey of all the castes should be conducted and equal representation be given to them in political dispensation based on their population. Secondly, Eshwaraiah said, the common culture of matrimony in OBCs should be revised and inter-caste marriages be promoted. Lastly, he said, the people should not to abuse morality, ethics and values.

Former MP Khushal Bopche said a convention will be held on August 7 every year as the other backward classes (OBCs) have not been given their due constitutional status.

Maharashtra minister for animal husbandry and dairy development Mahadeo Jankar said chief minister Devendra Fadnavis has announced the creation of an independent department that would ensure implementation of various schemes meant for OBCs. However, an independent census of these communities can be useful in mitigating their problems, he added.

OBC activist Shrawan Deore from Nashik said cultural awakening is important than having political power vested in individuals as collective efforts alone can ensure social rights.

Those present on the occasion were Baban Taywade, president of OBC Mahasangh, Nana Patole, MP from Bhandara-Gondia constituency, Ashok Jivtode, Guduri Venkateshwara Rao and others.