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Scholar Speak 

Top scholars have commented on the developments at Dera Sach Khand Ballan but dismiss these are reactionary and far removed from the real struggle of the dalits. 

Dr Ronki Ram, Panjab University: It is an assertion of identity and not a separate religion. The manner in which the process is unfolding is not new. The Dalits of Punjab have always laid claim to a separate religion. They are doing well economically and are now asserting. 

Dr Harish Puri, former Head Professor of Dr B R Ambedkar Chair, Guru Nanak Dev University: This kind of assertion arising from anger is destructive. No one is talking about upliftment of Dalits. These things are the handiwork of a very small section of Dalits who are either settled abroad and are doing well or those Dalits who come from Doaba where NRI population is high. These people can afford to assert. But no one is addressing the problems of a large section of Dalits who continue to live in highly condemnable conditions.  

Balbir Madhopuri, well-known Dalit writer: I do not agree to what Dera Ballan has done, for this is no assertion. This action limits the preaching of Guru Ravidass to a very limited section. Ad dharam, which was established in 1925 and recognised by the British in 1930, incorporated the teaching of 36 gurus belonging to lower castes. Ravidaassia or the Amrit Bani Ravi Das is very limiting.

 3 February 2010
 

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