Union Minister and Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) chief Chirag Paswan stirred political flutter after stating that he would rather resign from his ministerial position than compromise on his principles, following the example set by his late father, Ram Vilas Paswan.
Speaking at a party function for the SC/ST cell in the state capital on Monday evening, Chirag said, “I won’t hesitate to give up my ministerial post like my father did.” He reaffirmed his commitment to the NDA, saying, “I will remain with the NDA as long as Narendra Modi is my Prime Minister.”
Clarifying his stance to the media, Chirag explained that his comments were directed toward the Congress-led UPA. He recalled his father’s departure from the UPA government, citing instances where Dalit interests were ignored, including the absence of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s pictures at public events. “We parted ways because of these developments,” he added.
Chirag praised the current central government for being attentive to Dalit concerns. “No matter which alliance my father was part of, his role remained consistent, and I am carrying forward the same responsibility. As long as I am part of this alliance (NDA), I will work to protect SC/ST rights,” he assured.
He reiterated that if he ever felt Dalit rights were being neglected or his community’s voice wasn’t being heard within the alliance, he would step down, just as his father had done. “I won’t hesitate for a moment to quit if that day comes,” he said.
Previously, Chirag had opposed key central government policies, including the Waqf Amendment Bill and the introduction of lateral entry in government jobs.
He also objected to the Supreme Court’s move to classify sub-categories and the creamy layer within the SC/ST quota, leading the Centre to roll back its decisions after his and other allies’ protests.
Additionally, Chirag has been a vocal supporter of the caste census, aligning with Congress MP Rahul Gandhi and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on the issue
