Modi accuses Centre of indulging in caste-based politics

Rajkot, Gujarat, Apr 13 (UNI) Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi today criticised the Centre for allegedly ''indulging in caste-based politics by providing reservations for Dalits who had converted to Christianity''.

''It is wrong to have a reservation policy based on religion.

Dalits in Gujarat will never tolerate it and will unitedly fight against it,'' Mr Modi said, speaking at a function on the eve of Dr Babsaheb Ambedkar's birth anniversary here.

Mr Modi inaugurated a Dr Ambedkar Bhawan built at a cost of Rs 42.35 lakh here, and also announced a Rs 13,000-crore ''Garibi Samridhdhi'' scheme for the welfare of the poor and Dalits in the state.

''Gujarat government has set a unique example in the country by creating employment opportunities and accommodation facilities under ''Ummid'' scheme for over one lakh poor residing in cities. It is the only state in the country to have done so much for the poor,'' Mr Modi claimed.

On the occasion, Mr Modi also announced a Rs 20.26-crore package for 17,035 beneficiaries belonging to the Dalit community and members of other backward classes.

UNI