Karnataka trust vote: Dalit leaders hit out at BSP’s N Mahesh

MYSURU: A day after BSP chief Mayawati expelled lone party MLA N Mahesh for not toeing the party line, activists and party leaders are divided over his decision to skip the crucial trust vote. While a section of Dalit intellectuals from Mysuru district slammed his decision, others felt more clarity is required on this issue.
A Hariram, BSP state president, said a clear picture may emerge in the next 3-4 days. “There’s a lot of confusion prevailing around Mahesh’s decision to abstain from voting on Tuesday. It’s natural that people go with what they hear and read. We may get a clear picture in the next few days as there are many issues involved,” he said.
Karnataka Sahitya Akademi chairman Prof Aravind Malagatti echoed his view: “Mahesh resigned as minister in the coalition government in October 2018 stating that Behenji (Mayawati) had asked him to step down. He’s known for his ideology and strong personality. After this incident, I couldn’t talk to him. I’m waiting for a little clarity. He’s not a person who compromises on issues.”
He added, “Earlier, when Gopal was leading the BSP, a few such developments were reported but were far from the truth. The BSP movement is not a localised movement. It has roots across the country. ”
But Ambedkarite, writer and social activist Chamaram Krishnamurthy said Mahesh is a disappointment to the entire Bahujan movement. “The whole country is following Karnataka politics. This provided Mahesh an ideal platform to make his stand clear. Leaders like AT Ramaswamy and Krishna Byre Gowda used this platform. By remaining absent, Mahesh has let down the movement,” he said.
He added, “BSP is a cadrebased party. We work here for causes, for values and the movement. Unfortunately, Mahesh has let down the cadres who are ready to give their lives for him.”