This news can have its bearing on those who are aspiring to get government jobs in Uttarakhand, under the scheduled caste category. As the Centre is thinking to further carve out a special Mahadalit category, out of the SC category and include them in the Below Poverty Line (BPL) segment.

The proposal is expected to come up for discussion before the Union Cabinet on Thursday. As per those who are privy to the matter, the Mahadalit category will consist of those sub-castes from Scheduled Castes which are economically, socially and educationally most backward in comparison to others. In addition, being landless, homeless and have just symbolic representation in Government jobs, will be considered.

Critics are seeing the move as Congress’s move to give a body blow to UP Chief Minister Mayawati and other Dalit leaders. On contrary the Government is thinking over it based on the proposal mooted by the Rural Development Ministry, which sees a need to reach out to the most backward and poorest section of Dalits and this move will ensure their empowerment.

Though Mahadalits are present in large numbers in States like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu and Assam; the move should be seen with optimism by those belonging to Mahadalits in Uttarakhand too as the Government will like to complete it before September to take political advantage in the next year’s elections in Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Punjab, Goa and Uttarakhand.

Bihar is the first State to treat Mahadalits as separate category.
----