BSP is trying to politicize Saharanpur clash: BJP

Condemning the attacks on Dalits in Saharanpur which resulted in one of them being killed and around 12 others injured, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Sanjiv Balyan on Wednesday criticised the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and asserted that they trying to politicise the matter.

"BSP is trying to politicise the matter. I appeal to the people to maintain peace and not to get hostile. We also assure that the culprits won't be spared," Balyan told ANI.

Balyan further stated that strict action will be taken against people who were involved in the clash.

"There will be strict action against people who were involved. 24 people have been arrested so far. The police is taking precaution in into consideration," Balyan said.

Earlier this week, a fresh clash occurred after Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) Chief Mayawati's visit to the violence-hit area, in which one person was killed and several injured.

The state government also announced to give compensation of Rs. 15 lakhs to relative of a person who was killed during this incident.

On May 5th, one person was killed and 16 people, including a head constable, were injured in clashes between Dalits and Rajputs in Shabbirpur and Simlana villages.

Reports said that the police stopped the Maharana Pratap procession after some Dalits informed the police. This angered Rajputs, who allegedly resorted to violence.

However, BSP chief Mayawati said the state government has till now not provided relief and compensation to the victims of the violence.

She announced that the BSP would provide assistance of Rs. 50,000 to those whose houses have been burnt and Rs. 25,000 to those who have been injured in the violence.

"This is not right as it is the party of all communities. We want to create an equal society in the country. The party follows the path shown by Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar. The BSP maintained the brotherhood and didn't let a single communal riot to take place during its rule," said Mayawati.