Meeting of CMs to discuss dalit problems

Chandigarh, Dec 8 (UNI) Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has assured the National Conference of Dalit Organisations (NACDOR) that the government would call a meeting of Chief Ministers to discuss the problems of Dalits, adivasis other backward classes (OBCs) and Muslims.

NACDOR national convenor Ashok Bharti, who met the Prime Minister along with CPI leader D Raja and a NACDOR delegation on December 6, told reporters here that Dr Singh also assured that all possible steps would be taken to ensure socio-economic justice to the dalits, adivasis and other marginalised sections of the society.

Dr Singh said the meeting of the National Development Council (NDC) scheduled for tomorrow would discuss the resource allocation for such categories.

NACDOR urged the Prime Minister to keep the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment with himself rather than giving it to any other individual, Mr Bharti said.

It also demanded proportionate allocation of funds for the Dalits in development planning.

Besides, NACDOR called for the formation of a National Commission on Social Determinants on Health on the lines of the one set up by WHO.

It also demanded special component plan for Dalits to ensure proper utilisation of funds for their welfare.

Mr Bharti said the Prime Minister was distressed over atrocities on dalits and expressed the government's commitment to resolve their problems.

Meanwhile, SC/ST/OBC Employees Confederation leader Karmveer Singh warned that if the atrocities on dalits, like the Khairlangi incident in Maharashtra, remained unchecked, there could be an uprising in the Dalit community.

UNI MA SK GC1628