The CPI (ML) organized a rally in Udaipur and a dharna protest in front of the Collector’s office to protest against the anti-people policies of the Rajasthan State BJP government, led by Party State General Secretary Com Mahendra Choudhury, AISA National President Sucheta De and others. The main demands of the dharna were: implementation of MNREGA, and immediate arrest of rape-accused Sati ki Chori (Salumber Tehsil) Sarpanch Udaylal.

Hundreds of people from Salumber, Sarada, Udaipur city, Mavali and other places attended the rally which started from the Town Hall and culminated in a dharna and meeting at the Collectorate. The rally raised slogans related to MNREGA, demonetization and compensation for farmers and workers, pro-Adani Ambani policies, ration cards, BPL cards, housing pattas, and political protection to criminals and rapists like Udaylal.

The meeting was addressed by Com Mahendra Choudhury, Sucheta De, Prof Hemendra Chandaliya, AIPWA leader Com Premlata, and others. Spekers said that the BJP government and Home Minister Gulab Katariya are protecting criminals like rape-accused Sati ki Chori Sarpanch Udaylal; if Udaylal is not arrested without delay Party workers would undertake a fast unto death. The speakers condemned the government’s open protection of criminals; even after the High Court’s direction and the victim’s statement under 164, Udaylal who has close connections with the BJP is not being arrested. This shows clearly that he enjoys political protection of the ruling party. The speakers said that the government is cutting down on schemes for the poor and displacing the poor in the name of smart cities; the poor must unite and fight for housing pattas, employment, ration-kerosene, and other rights.

A Party delegation met the Collector and submitted a memorandum with the above demands, after which Com Saurabh Naruka addressed the meeting and gave details of the meeting with the Collector. At the conclusion of the meeting the rape victim addressed the dharna and demanded justice.