This victory feels surreal. I remember the scorching afternoons spent campaigning, my voice hoarse from addressing rallies in dusty villages under the harsh sun. I remember the scepticism — a young newcomer challenging the iron grip of the regional heavyweights.
The journey wasn’t easy. But I was fuelled by stories — of unemployed young people with degrees collecting dust; of farmers crippled by non-payment of sugarcane dues and vicious cycles of debt; of families shattered by lynchings and bulldozer demolitions; of lies and hatred against communities; of the ripping apart of India’s social and democratic fabric. This is why I refused to back down; this is why I fought against the powerful.
My campaign resonated with voters. People saw themselves reflected in my fight for better representation – of all 36 biradaris, women, the underprivileged, the forgotten. I spoke of creating opportunities, not just handouts. I promised to fight for fair prices for farmers; to ensure they get their dues, not eviction notices. I vowed to eradicate the stain of religious hatred and the brutal practice of lynchings. I stood against bulldozer “justice” that destroys homes before due process can take its course. This win is not mine alone. It’s a win for every voice that yearned to be heard, for every dream waiting to take flight.
I come from Kairana, a city merely 100 km and about two hours from India’s capital, Delhi. The deprivation and helplessness among people of all communities here are alarming. I want to highlight a few problems that I feel are important and would like to work on in the future:
For UP’s women
Women in India and Uttar Pradesh face a complex web of challenges. These include a high prevalence of anaemia, child marriage, a wide digital gap and low school-completion rates, particularly in rural areas. This restricts their access to skills and job opportunities. Workforce participation for women in Uttar Pradesh is dismally low, with wide variations across districts. Further hindering their economic empowerment is wage disparity, where women often receive less for the same work. Even in the realm of sports, societal norms limit female participation. These factors combine to create a reality where women have less control over their lives, limited mobility, and a dependence on others.
For the farmer
Uttar Pradesh’s farmers grapple with a multitude of issues. A major concern is delayed or unpaid dues from sugar mills, sugar being a key crop in the state. This traps farmers in cycles of debt. Further, the average farmer income in the state remains low compared to the national average. This disparity highlights the difficulty farmers face in turning a profit despite their hard work.
Additionally, a lack of diversification in crops and climate change creates vulnerability. Dependence on a few crops makes farmers particularly susceptible to price fluctuations and environmental factors like pests or droughts.
Putting an end to the culture of lynchings
The spectre of lynching hangs heavy over India’s minorities, leaving them in a constant state of fear. Rumours, often spread through social media, can incite mobs to take justice into their own hands, targeting individuals based on religion or caste. The lack of a law against lynching creates a sense of impunity, emboldening perpetrators. These incidents not only claim lives but also sow deep seeds of distrust and hatred between communities. The families of victims live with the trauma, while others from the targeted minority are left constantly on guard, questioning their safety and sense of belonging in their own country. This atmosphere of fear and suspicion undermines the very fabric of a pluralistic society.
Bulldozer “justice”
The recent incidents of demolishing homes, often termed “bulldozer justice”, raise serious concerns about the violation of fundamental rights. These demolitions, particularly targeting Muslim properties, are viewed by human-rights organisations as a form of extrajudicial punishment. They argue that such actions bypass due process and inflict immense hardship, rendering families homeless and destroying livelihoods.
This practice contradicts the right to life enshrined in Article 21 of the Constitution. This right is not merely about physical survival, but also encompasses living with dignity and having access to shelter. The bulldozing of homes is a harsh and arbitrary tactic that fails to address the root causes of social issues. It’s crucial to uphold the rule of law and ensure proper legal channels are followed in dealing with criminal activities. Protecting the rights of all citizens, irrespective of religion, is vital for a just and equitable society.
The Lok Sabha elections this year spanned 44 days, making it the second longest in history after the inaugural election of 1951-52, which lasted over four months. Throughout India, the scorching sun took a toll on the health of candidates, booth workers, and polling staff who tirelessly worked day and night. Tragically, over 55 people succumbed to heat-related illnesses, including 25 polling staff. My heartfelt condolences go out to the families who lost their loved ones. I urge the Election Commission to reflect on these events and avoid scheduling elections during extreme summer in the future.
With the support of 36 biradaris, I stand before you as their representative in the highest temple of democracy, embodying their hopes and aspirations. Now begins the real work. The 18th Lok Sabha marks a significant shift from the past decade, with a balanced house that includes a strong Opposition capable of exerting pressure on the ruling party to prioritise people-centric initiatives. As your elected representative, I pledge to speak for the voiceless and champion the marginalised. Together, let us forge a path towards a brighter future for everyone.
The writer is Samajwadi Party MP, Lok Sabha
