Lucknow, Oct. 22 -- Sarojininagar MLA Rajeshwar Singh on Wednesday urged people to counter casteism and forces he described as opposed to Sanatan traditions through democratic and constitutional means. In his Vijayadashami message, Singh said the festival's significance extended beyond the burning of effigies to confronting injustice, arrogance and social divisions. "Today's Ravana is not merely an effigy. Casteism, hatred and a mindset that insults Sanatan traditions also pose challenges," he said. Without naming any political party, Singh criticised those he accused of opposing the Ram temple's construction, being associated with the firing on kar sevaks in Ayodhya and remaining silent over the persecution and displacement of Kashmiri Hindus. He said citizens should respond to such forces through democratic participation and scrutiny of their ideas and actions. Vijayadashami, he added, was an occasion to stand up for truth and harmony against injustice and divisive thinking. He urged citizens to rise above caste divisions and work towards social harmony, saying India's strength lay in its cultural roots, unity and democratic values. htc...