Bhim Army seeks funds to woo Dalits

LUCKNOW: Even though Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad has announced that he would not contest elections, he has put out an appeal for funds saying that he needs money to mobilise Dalits before 2019 Lok Sabha elections. Bhim Army has set an initial target of online donations of Rs 20 lakh in a month.

Azad, who is likely to release a video appealing for funds, said: “We are not connected to any party. If people want that I should continue to work independently and don’t have to bow before any party, they should donate to us. The funds will be used for rallies and Bhim Pathshalas where we will be introducing English as a medium of instruction.”

Azad had earlier told TOI that he would support BSP supremo Mayawati in 2019 election, even though she has been consistently refusing to accept it and termed his outfit as a BJP front trying to sabotage Dalit movement. In its appeal, Bhim Army states that despite being jailed under the stringent National Security Act, Azad is not giving up his ideals.

The appeal says, “Azad is now mobilising the marginalised sections of society under Bhim Army’s banner and is all set to create strong impact on 2019 Lok Sabha elections.” Azad plans to travel across the length and breadth of the country to mobilise Dalits. “He will hold rallies also for which we require funds. We are looking at an initial amount of Rs 20 lakh. Thereafter, we will start project specific campaigns to collect funds. Whoever wants to contribute, will have to do so online,” said a Bhim Army member.

The outfit has also specified that only Indians will be allowed to contribute and that details of all donors will be uploaded online.

Bhim Army, so far having a base only in west UP, says that it has expanded its footprint in UP and other states. “We have supporters in eastern UP and have held several successful public meetings in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan as well,” said a member.