Akhilesh Yadav Raises Atiq Ahmed’s Murder, Caste Census, and Minority Rights in Constitution Debate

Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav addressed several key issues during the Constitution debate in the Lok Sabha. He questioned fake encounters, custodial deaths, caste census, and the rights of minorities in Uttar Pradesh.

Atiq Ahmed’s Murder and Custodial Deaths

Akhilesh raised the issue of Atiq Ahmed’s murder while in police custody and expressed concern over the increasing custodial deaths in Uttar Pradesh.

Fake Encounters: He alleged that extrajudicial killings have become rampant in the state.
Custodial Deaths: Yadav said UP leads in custodial deaths, calling it a worrying trend for democracy.

Caste Census for Equality

Akhilesh emphasized the need for a caste census, stating it would reduce discrimination and provide justice and respect to underprivileged communities.

Reservation and Employment: He criticized the outsourcing of jobs and alleged that reservations are being diluted.
Discrimination in Appointments: He highlighted bias in the appointment of vice-chancellors and professors in educational institutions.

Social Equality: Yadav claimed that caste census would promote equality and reduce societal divisions.

Minority Rights and Religious Sites

Akhilesh also spoke about the rights of minorities, alleging:

Seizure of Religious Sites: He accused the administration of targeting minority religious places.
Discrimination Against Muslims: He claimed Muslims are being treated as second-class citizens, with their homes being demolished and lives threatened.

Suppression of Democratic Rights

The former UP CM criticized the suppression of voting rights during elections in Uttar Pradesh, citing incidents where women were stopped from voting by officials with firearms.

Akhilesh Yadav’s Demand

Akhilesh urged the government to protect constitutional rights, conduct a caste census, safeguard minority rights, and strengthen democracy by addressing these issues.