http://www.zeenews.com/articles.asp?aid=480963&sid=NAT
National Dalit Front to unite Dalits across India Lucknow, Nov 04: In a bid to unite Dalits and the downtrodden section of society under one umbrella across India, the National Dalit Front today said it would go allout to ensure that these people are not deprived of their rights. The front is headed by union minister and Lok Jan Shakti Party chief Ram Vilas Paswan and will fight for the Dalit cause including reservation for them in private sector. Speaking to reporters here, general secretary of the front, Udit Raj, who is also the national president of Indian Justice Party said, "The front will unite the Dalits and tribals and work to ensure that Dalits get their due share in all spheres." When asked whether the condition of Dalits has worsened during Mayawati's regime, Raj said, "There has been a drop in the educational and social status of the Dalits. Development is now only confined to Lucknow." Levelling allegations against the BSP supremo, Raj said that Dalits of a particular sub-caste (cobblers) have been harassed, especially in Bijnor. The NDF secretary also sought Centre's intervention alleging that the state government is making the SC/ST Atrocities Prevention Act 1989 weak. Voicing concern over non-allotment of funds for Dalits in proportion to their population, Raj said a national developmental authority should be formed and such funds should be spent for the welfare of Dalits. The NDF also asked for uniform and compulsory education throughout India after 'privatisation of education' to ensure participation of Dalits and tribals in the higher judicial services. Bureau Report
