Vijayapura: Despite his long-standing service and repeated electoral successes, Vijayapur MP Ramesh Jigajinagi expressed significant discontent towards the BJP high command for not considering him for a ministerial post. This sentiment was voiced during the inauguration of his MP office in Vijayapura city.
Ramesh Jigajinagi, the only Dalit MP to have won seven consecutive elections from the BJP in South India, highlighted his frustration and the broader implications for Dalit representation in the party. He subtly indicated that while he does not necessarily seek a ministerial post for personal gain, he feels an acute sense of injustice on behalf of his constituents and community.
During his speech, Jigajinagi recounted the reactions from his constituents upon his return from Delhi. “When I returned from Delhi to Vijayapura, people scolded me for joining BJP,” he revealed, underscoring the deep disappointment and sense of betrayal felt by those who had supported him. He elaborated on the sentiments of many Dalits who had advised against joining the BJP, warning that the party was perceived as anti-Dalit. Despite this, he chose to support the BJP, believing in its potential for inclusivity and change. “Many Dalits argued that we should not join BJP. There is also pressure from people, although not for me. What justice is this? Ask yourself,” he challenged.
Jigajinagi highlighted the disparity in ministerial appointments, pointing out that while upper-caste members have been regularly appointed to ministerial positions, Dalits have not received the same recognition. “As a Dalit, I alone have won seven elections from the BJP in South India. All upper castes are ministers. Why have Dalits not been supported by the BJP?” he questioned, expressing his deep-seated frustration.
This is not the first time Jigajinagi has voiced his grievances. Just a week prior, he criticized certain BJP leaders for internal politics that he believes cost him a ministerial position. He emphasized that the people of North Karnataka and his community had hoped for his elevation to a ministerial role, a desire he felt the state leaders failed to support. “It was the desire of the people of North Karnataka and our community that I should become a minister. It was believed that the state leaders would recommend my name for the ministerial post. They also had that responsibility. But no one spoke for me,” he lamented.