Lucknow, August 24: Congress leader Rajendra Pal Gautam has emphasized the need for a respectful agreement regarding seat sharing between Congress and opposition parties for the upcoming Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections in 2027. He stated that no compromise can be made on respect, and Congress deserves equal recognition.
In an interview with a news agency, Gautam mentioned that the seat-sharing formula should reflect a dignified arrangement. He noted that while there could be minor adjustments, the fundamental principle of equality must be upheld. The party’s top leadership can discuss this further, but respect is non-negotiable.
Addressing the controversy surrounding a fish feast in Ayodhya, Gautam claimed he was unaware of such an event. He pointed out that fish has traditionally been a staple for communities like the Kevat, Mallah, Kashyap, Dhimar, and Nishad, who rely on rivers for their livelihoods. He asserted that the BJP should not dictate what people can or cannot eat, as the Constitution guarantees everyone the right to their food preferences.
Gautam accused the BJP of disrespecting the Mallah community, for whom fish is a primary food source. He challenged the BJP to clarify the eating habits of its leaders, stating that no evidence has surfaced showing Congress state president Ajay Rai consuming fish. He urged the BJP to reflect on its own actions rather than resorting to falsehoods.
The Congress leader claimed that with elections approaching, the BJP aims to divert attention from pressing issues. He asserted that the BJP will face a political battle with Congress over constitutional and democratic values. He highlighted the issue of donations to the Ram Temple, promising to bring this matter to the forefront in villages, insisting that BJP members will not escape accountability this time.
On the topic of reservations, Gautam stated that as long as the caste system exists, the need for reservations will persist.
He also criticized the BJP regarding the alleged purification during Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge’s visit to Haldwani, asserting that such politics breeds hatred in society.
Regarding the meeting between Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav and Aam Aadmi Party leader Sanjay Singh, Gautam remarked that it is common for political leaders to meet, and there is nothing unusual about it. He recounted his own meeting with Yadav in 2021, which lasted over an hour, and expressed openness to future discussions. He emphasized the importance of maintaining relationships despite political differences.
Gautam noted that previously, leaders from different parties would engage in heated debates in Parliament but would maintain cordial relations outside the House. He lamented that the rise of the BJP has increased animosity in politics.
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