JAYS Backs IAS Santosh Verma: Massive 'Save Constitution-Save Reservation' Protest Announced for January 18 in Bhopal

Bhopal- On Sunday, the Jay Adivasi Yuva Shakti (JAYS) held a joint press conference in the state capital, Bhopal, issuing a strong statement in support of IAS officer Santosh Verma. JAYS, along with various SC, ST, and OBC organizations, outright rejected the allegations leveled against Verma, asserting that his statements are being deliberately misinterpreted to stir unnecessary controversy, which is detrimental to social harmony.

During the press conference, JAYS National President Advocate Lokesh Mujalda announced the 'Save Constitution-Save Reservation Public Outrage Mega Movement' on January 18 in Bhopal. He claimed that nearly 5 lakh people from SC-ST-OBC organizations across the state would converge for this event. Mujalda emphasized that the agitation would showcase the unity of the nation's backward and tribal communities in safeguarding constitutional rights, social justice, and reservation policies.

Lokesh Mujalda clarified that IAS Santosh Verma made no objectionable remarks. He stated, "Our social traditions have always taught brotherhood. 'Roti-Beti Vyavahar' (inter-dining and inter-marriage relations) is the collective identity of Indian society. Even RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat has repeatedly advocated for social unity on these lines. Thus, whipping up a storm over Verma's statement in the state is entirely unjust."

Mujalda added that even if Verma expressed regret over any phrasing, continuing to inflame the issue is an attempt to damage societal unity. He urged that if any individual or group tries to divide society, the state government should take suo motu action against them.

Mujalda also criticized certain politicians for registering protests in this matter, questioning their motives. He asked, "Do these leaders win elections solely on the votes of one community? Has our social populace not contributed to their victories?" He warned that such politics is harming society and must be curbed immediately.

In an exclusive conversation with The Mooknayak, JAYS President Lokesh Mujalda reiterated that the allegations against IAS Santosh Verma are baseless and that his statement has been twisted to create discord. He explained that Verma only spoke about social brotherhood and the 'Roti-Beti Vyavahar' embedded in Indian traditions, a concept endorsed by many prominent social and ideological leaders. Mujalda stressed that Verma made no derogatory comments, yet it's being unnecessarily politicized, which is harmful to societal cohesion.

Mujalda further warned that if the government fails to act against those spreading tension, JAYS and other SC-ST-OBC organizations are prepared for large-scale protests. He detailed the January 18 Bhopal event under the 'Save Constitution-Save Reservation' banner, expecting lakhs of participants. "To protect social harmony and constitutional rights, our communities must unite and raise their voice," he asserted.

The press conference saw active participation from various social groups, highlighting their solidarity. Key representatives included JAYS National President Advocate Lokesh Mujalda, OBC Mahasabha's National Core Committee member Kamalendra Singh, Mahendra Lodhi, Adivasi Samaj's Anand Raykwar, along with leaders from Bhim Army, Ahirwar Samaj, Kushwaha Samaj, Lodhi Samaj organizations. Also present were office-bearers from JAYS Student Wing, AJJAKS Student Organization, and Nazi Organization.

All groups unanimously declared that if the government does not take strict action against those sowing division, they will hit the streets for a major movement.

Concluding his address, Mujalda issued a clear warning to the government: "If no action is taken against those harming social harmony, we will be forced to take to the streets. The full responsibility will lie with the government." JAYS and allied organizations appealed to the media to prominently cover the issue, ensuring the message of societal unity reaches a wider audience.