Jammu: Mahesh Gupta, Chairman of Akhil Bharatiya Mahajan Biradari Sangh (ABMBS) and social activist, said, “Caste discrimination should be eradicated from Jammu and Kashmir as well as the entire country.” The ABMBS has been making significant efforts in this regard, he added.
Gupta stated that the organization serves as a platform for Mahajan sub-castes, aiming to foster unity, empathy, and understanding among the Mahajan community members.He emphasized that the organization is guided by the philosophy of its leader, Lala Hansraj Maharaj.
In an exclusive interview with Rashid Rahil, Editor-In-Chief Asian Mail, Mahesh Gupta shared that the Mahajanas migrated from various states and settled in Jammu, forming their own distinct history. “The Mahajancommunity is rooted in commerce, and numerous individuals are working to establish a unified platform.”
Mahesh Gupta revealed that research is underway to bring the Mahajanas under one umbrella. Over the past year and a half, 18 communities have joined the Sangh, with 65 more have been identified.
Efforts are being made to connect them with Sangh, marking the beginning of a new journey.When asked about the purpose of this
process, Mahesh Gupta replied, “We aim to establish ABMBS as an institution to ensure our well-being.”
He emphasized the importance of understanding their roots, stating, “A nation that doesn’t know its foundation has its dignity shaken.”
Mahesh Gupta quoted a Sanskrit proverb, saying, “Mahajan is the way out.” He expressed his desire for other communities to benefit from their path as well.
Responding to a question, Mahesh Gupta clarified that the ABMBS has no involvement with politics. “We don’t want to be associated with any political party,” he said. “We’re concerned with what’s right and wrong.”
Regarding the abrogation of Article 370, Mahesh Gupta viewed it as a transformative change. “Change always comes with something new,” he said. Although their lives remained unaffected, he acknowledged that Article 370 had limited their circle. “That barrier has been broken,” he added.
Mahesh Gupta emphasized India’s secular nature, highlighting the connections they had before and after the abrogation of Article 370. However, he noted that some individuals exploited Article 370 to maintain power and enslave others.
He observed that the 1990s freedom movement in Kashmir has given way to political maturity among Kashmiris. When asked about the impact of Article 370’s abrogation, Mahesh Gupta suggested that Kashmiri’s themselves should be asked what they gained or lost from the decision.
Finally, Mahesh Gupta reiterated the ABMBS’s commitment to strengthening and serving the organization with their best efforts and resources. “We just want casteism to end in our country and society,” he said.
