Efforts on were for Dalit-upper caste unity: Athawale

Nashik, Oct 31 (UNI) Republican Party of India (RPI-Athawale) President Ramdas Athawale today said efforts were on for unity between Dalits and the upper castes.

''Efforts are on for the unity between Dalits and upper caste people. This is the real principle of Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar's thoughts. Some people are trying to create a divide among these people, but we are trying for unity,'' Mr Athawale said while talking to reporters here today.

It may be recalled that BSP chief Mayawati attained power in Uttar Pradesh by adopting the same formula.

The RPI leader was in the city for the state executive committee meet of the party. On the occasion, a meet of the district unit of the party was also organised today.

Stressing on the need for creating a front of Dalits, the majority and the minorities, Mr Athawale said efforts were on to bring these people in the party fold.

The state executive meet also took stock of the preparation of the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the party. The celebrations will be inaugurated on January five next year. A public rally will be held in the city and Mumbai to conclude the celebrations, he said.

The RPI leader said he was ready for unity among the several factions of RPI and assured that it will not be restricted for elections.

The alliance of his party with the NCP and Congress will not come in the way of the RPI unity, he added.

UNI