Maya assures party following Saint Ravi Das preachings

Varanasi, Feb 21 (UNI) Recalling the dreams of Saint Ravi Das on the occasion of his 631st birth anniversary today, Uttar Pradesh chief minister Mayawati said her party was committed to fulfilling the Saint's dream of ''Sarvajan Hitaye, Sarvajan Sukhaye'' (welfare and prosperity of all).

'' Even after 60 years of Independence, a part of society, comprising Scheduled Caste (SC), Scheduled Tribe (ST) and Muslims, is not getting the respect they deserve,'' Ms Mayawati said while addressing a gathering on the occasion.

The Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) was working towards the fulfillment of the Saint's dream, who 600 yrs back, gave the message that all the religions are equal, the UP CM maintained.

''Saint Ravi Das made efforts to remove discrimination from the society...he wanted a society that has 'Roti, Kapda and Makan.' He is still remembered by the people with much respect,'' Ms Mayawati noted.

''The society welfare efforts commenced by the great Saint were later followed by Narayan Swami, Mahatma Jyoti Rav Phoole, Dr Bheem Rao Ambedkar and Kanshi Ram,'' she added.

The CM handed over a golden 'palki' (palanquin) to Sant Ravidas temple also.

The 'palki,' made of about 15 kg gold costing over Rs 1 crore, was brought via road from Jalhandar.

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