Monday, August 10

Rajasthan Minister calls Meena-Gurjar communities ‘Ram-Lakshman’ duo

Jaipur, Aug 10 (IANS) A massive crowd gathered on the second day of the two‑day World Tribal Day celebrations at the historic Panch‑Athai complex in Nangal Pyarivas, Dausa district, where Rajasthan Cabinet Minister Kirodi Lal Meena made politically significant remarks about the relationship between the Meena and Gurjar communities.

Addressing thousands of people, Meena described the two communities as complementary, rooted in agriculture and sharing similar social and economic concerns. He appealed for harmony and cautioned against conflicts that could damage broader social interests.

The event was held inside a massive dome erected across approximately 125 bighas, though the arrangements proved insufficient, forcing many attendees to sit outside in open spaces.

In his speech, Meena referred to former Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot and his late father, former Union Minister Rajesh Pilot, recalling the political history of Dausa and emphasising the role of the Meena community in supporting their rise.

He told the Gurjar community that if they aspired to see one of their leaders become Chief Minister, they must also remember the importance of “Ram”—a reference to the Meena community’s support.

He said becoming Chief Minister or Prime Minister ultimately depends on destiny and the blessings of the people, and urged that social harmony should not be sacrificed for political ambitions. Drawing from Hindu mythology, he likened the relationship between the two communities to that of Lord Ram and Lakshman, stressing that conflict between them would harm both.

Meena also reiterated his political commitment to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Recounting an incident involving his supporters, he said some had told him, “The party is wrong; you are right.”

He responded that the party was right, emphasising that the BJP had given him his political identity and ideology.

The minister announced that the formal installation of idols of the principal deity and other gods and goddesses at the Panch‑Athai complex is scheduled for August 9, 2027, coinciding with World Tribal Day.

Several social and political figures, including convener Lal Meena, local MLA Rambilas Meena, Rajendra Meena, Mahendrapal and Mangilal, also addressed the gathering. The second day featured cultural programmes with performances by local artists and students, adding a cultural dimension to the large religious and community event.

With its massive turnout and politically significant remarks, the celebration became an important gathering for the Meena and Gurjar communities in Eastern Rajasthan, particularly in the politically significant Dausa region.

–IANS

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