Anupriya Patel Reiterates Support for Caste Census, Ashish Patel Vows to Fight for Social Justice
Lucknow — The birth anniversary of Yashkayi Dr. Sonelal Patel, founder of Apna Dal (S), was celebrated as “Jan Swabhiman Diwas” with great fervor at Ravindralaya Auditorium in Charbagh, Lucknow. The event highlighted the party’s unwavering commitment to social justice, caste-based census, and empowerment of the marginalized.
Key Dignitaries and Participation
The event was graced by Union Minister and National President Anupriya Patel as the Chief Guest, and Uttar Pradesh Cabinet Minister and National Working President Ashish Patel as the Special Guest. The function was presided over by the party’s state president and conducted by National Secretary K.K. Patel.
In a major organizational announcement, National Secretary Mata Badal Tiwari was elevated to the post of National Vice President. Former district presidents from BSP and SP, along with their supporters, joined Apna Dal (S), marking a significant boost in the party’s grassroots strength.
Anupriya Patel Bats for Caste Census
Addressing the gathering, Anupriya Patel said, “Apna Dal has always supported the demand for a caste census, which was a dream of Dr. Sonelal Patel. The central government has taken crucial steps toward realizing Babasaheb Ambedkar’s vision of economic and social democracy.”
She added, “A caste-based census is not divisive—it is unifying. It will bring out the true picture of India and highlight the condition of those who have been historically left behind.”
Urging party workers to stay committed to the cause, she said, “Do not deviate from our ideology. Opposition and conspiracies are always directed at strong and honest people. Our party is gaining popularity and acceptance, and we must take a pledge to emerge as the number one party in Uttar Pradesh.”
Ashish Patel: Committed to Social Justice
Cabinet Minister Ashish Patel emphasized the party’s unwavering dedication to social justice. “Apna Dal will not back down from any conspiracy. We stand with the oppressed and will respond to every challenge. The marginalized have the power to form or topple governments,” he said.
He also announced that four engineering colleges have been named after great social reformers, with Ambedkar Nagar Engineering College proposed to be named after Chhatrapati Shahu Ji, in a symbolic gesture of representation and respect.
Honoring Party Leaders
The party presented the “Dr. Sonelal Patel Samman” to leaders including Pyare Lal Patel (National Secretary – Kisan Manch), Ramesh Patel (State General Secretary), and Jagannath Patel (National Secretary). They were felicitated with silver crowns and ceremonial shawls.
Notable Attendees on the Dais
Several prominent leaders were present, including:
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State President Jatav R.P. Gautam
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National General Secretaries R.B. Singh and Ram Nayan Patel
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National Treasurer O.P. Katiyar
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State Minister Rekha Patel, Women’s Commission Member Archana Patel
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Former Minister Ram Lakhan Patel
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MLAs Dr. Surbhi, Shafiq Ansari, Vachaspati, Avinash Dwivedi, Rashmi Arya, Saroj Kuril, Jackie, Jeetlal Patel, R.K. Patel, Sunil Patel, Rinki Kol
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Commission Member Rajendra Pal
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Former MLA Jamuna Prasad Saroj
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Former MP Nagendra Singh
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Prof. Ramchandra Patel, Karuna Shankar Patel, Rajesh Patel ‘Bulbul’
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Spokesperson Rajesh Srivastava
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Youth Wing National Secretary Sanjeev Singh Rathore
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Trade Wing President Pushkar Chaudhary
Hundreds of party workers and supporters attended the event, making it a powerful show of strength and unity.
Apna Dal (S) Reaffirms Its Mission
The party concluded the event by reaffirming its resolve to champion social justice and uplift the marginalized. Leaders reiterated that the caste census is a vital step for equitable development, not just a political agenda. The event served as a tribute to Dr. Sonelal Patel’s enduring vision and lifelong work for social equality and representation.
