LJP leader Chirag Paswan.

NEW DELHI: Prosperous Dalits and the financially well-off from other sections should voluntarily stop availing quotas like a large number of rich who are surrendering subsidised gas cylinders under the Pahal scheme, Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) member Chirag Paswan said.

"In my opinion, people coming from decent financial background should leave reservation. That will help others from their community avail the opportunity to grow and do better. Actually, those who are in dire need of reservation will get the maximum benefit," the first-time MP from Bihar told TOI in an exclusive interview. Though Paswan said the decision should be prompted by self-realisation rather than the force of law, his remarks are likely to spark a lively debate.

The LJP legislator said he really hoped for the emergence of a "casteless" society. "That will be my ultimate goal. I come from Bihar where caste scenario dominates politics. UP and Bihar will have to play a key role to achieve this goal," he said.

Responding to whether his party's ally BJP is trying to woo backward castes and Dalits in Uttar Pradesh and Punjab by appointing an OBC as president in UP and a Dalit in Punjab, the junior Paswan said, "People may question the timing of such appointments. But irrespective of this or eyeing certain voters, we must accept that there is now acknowledgement about bringing in more such leaders. BJP is trying to bring more talent from this section of society, which is a good sign. More such representations will bring major change in our polity."

However, taking a dig at powerful Dalit leaders and former UP CM Mayawati, the young MP said she had absolute power during her rule. "If she wanted, she could have done a lot for the section she belongs to. But she concentrated more on building statues," Paswan said.

