Terming the politicking over atrocities on Dalits as "unfair", Union Minister Ramdas Athawale today advocated for a broad-based social debate over the issue.
"I feel that allegations flying back and forth between political parties over atrocities on Dalits were unfair, rather a social debate should take place on this issue", the Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment told reporters here.
The RPI (A) leader rubbished the charge that the atrocities on Dalits have increased under the BJP-led NDA government.
"Congress allegation on NDA is not right as atrocities on Dalits were committed during prevision UPA government as well," Athawale claimed.
"Atrocities on Dalits will not be tolerated under any government. Our government (NDA) was trying to stop atrocities on Dalits", said the minister.
To a query, he said that the RPI (A) will join hands with BJP and contest the 2017 UP Assembly polls.
"BSP chief Mayawati doesn't have right over the votes of entire Dalit community," Athawale added.
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