In a situation where most political parties may be forced to eventually take sides, the Bahujan Samaj Party in UP is determined to maintain a neutral stand on the Ayodhya issue.
BSP chief and UP CM Mayawati has reportedly asked her party leaders to ensure that they maintain an equal distance from both the parties on the issue.
“We do not want to be seen as a party on the Ayodhya issue and Ms Mayawati has asked all party leaders not to make statements on the issue and remain completely non-controversial on the issue. Statements, if any, will be issued only by Ms Mayawati on the issue,” said a senior party functionary. According to party sources, the BSP is keen not to disturb its base among Muslims as well as upper caste Hindus by taking a position on the Ayodhya issue.
“We have a strong base among Brahmins and we cannot disturb this by taking up cudgels for the minorities. On the other hand, Muslims also form our support base and we will not end up as suspects in their eyes. Anyone — be it Hindu or Muslim — will be dealt with sternly if he is found trying to foment trouble. We will make sure that both communities are secure and we will respect the court verdict,” the functionary added.