Dalits, who number around 200 million, are among the poorest communities in India and have traditionally been relegated to activities on the margins of society. Her nomination, which followed Kovind’s, was seen by many as the opposition’s attempt to counter Modi’s move to woo Dalits. Dalit support is even more important for the BJP as it has mostly been shunned by Muslims, who make up about 14 percent of the 1.3 billion population. Their vote is extremely important, especially for the BJP,” Hebbar said. Authorities in BJP-ruled Uttar Pradesh state sent riot police to Saharanpur district in May after clashes between Dalits and upper caste Hindus.

Source: Manila Times July 15, 2017 14:48 UTC