The most important lower-caste politician in Indian history
Kumari Mayawati Das , a daughter of “Dalits” – formerly known as “Untouchables” has become an icon for many of India’s poorest citizens. The world’s largest democracy has a complex coalition political system which means that the seats won by her Bahujan Samaj Party in the current general election may be pivotal in negotiations. She stands an outside chance of achieving her most-coveted prize, the role of Prime Minister. To discuss the role of Mayawati (she uses just one name) Jenni is joined by the BBC’s correspondent in Delhi, Rupa Jha, and the Mumbai-based writer and journalist, Kalpana Sharma.
