VIJAYAWADA: In an apparent bid to win over Dalit vote bank, Jana Sena Party chief Pawan Kalyan on Wednesday visited Dr BR Ambedkar Memorial Park in Lucknow. The actor-turned-politician is said to have closeted with senior BSP leaders during his one-day visit.
Though sources in the Jana Sena said the visit has no political significance, it is learnt that Kalyan’s visit to the Ambedkar memorial is a move to get closer to the Dalits and erase the ‘Kapu’ image of his party.
“It’s a memorable experience to be here and to know more about leaders such as Ambedkar, Kanshiram, Narayan Guru and Shahu Maharaj. It’s a heart touching experience for me to know more about these inspirational personalities,’’ Kalyan said. He added that the purpose of his visit is to take back with him the dedication and commitment of these inspiring personalities to Telugu states and work for the upliftment of the downtrodden.
Kalyan also took the opportunity to criticise the Centre for its alleged failure to implement the provisions in the AP Reorganisation Act.
“The promise made in Parliament is a ‘saashan’ (law). The Centre has to fulfil its promise,’’ he said, adding that it stands accountable to the people of AP regarding special category status.
“It must answer to the people of AP. One should not run away from his/her words. Lack of political accountability leads to chaos,’’ he said.
On the future plans of his party, Kalyan said, “We are still exploring the possibilities of forming an alliance. We always had a respect for Kanshiramji.’’
However, his indications in getting closer to the BSP, a party with a strong Dalit support, is unlikely to take shape as it chief Mayawati is planning to align with the Congress to take on the BJP in the Hindi heartland.
“The TDP is also moving towards the Congress and it had already aligned with the Congress in Telangana. In these circumstances, it is unlikely that the JSP could get closer to BSP,’’ sources said.