Kolkata, 18 February (H.S.) – Trinamool Congress MLA and founder of the Dalit Sahitya Academy, Manoranjan Byapari, once again made headlines with his unique approach. On Tuesday morning, he decided to pull a rickshaw to reach the Assembly, emphasizing that he represents the true working-class people who earn their living through hard work.

Byapari started his journey at 9 AM from the MLA hostel on Kid Street, Kolkata, pulling a rickshaw all the way to the Assembly. Speaking about his initiative, he stated that he considers himself a representative of the working-class community, and this effort was a way to reaffirm that identity.

Before embarking on this journey, the MLA shared a detailed Facebook post recalling the 2021 Assembly elections when he was elected from the Balagarh constituency. He mentioned how a slogan had gained popularity back then—Rickshaw will go to the Assembly. Now, he has turned that slogan into reality.

In his post, Byapari wrote, A rickshaw puller has now become a member of the Assembly, but the rickshaw itself could not enter earlier because pedal rickshaws are not allowed in Kolkata. His remark is being seen as a subtle criticism of urban policies and the disparity between rural and urban areas.

Four years later, he finally received permission to ride a rickshaw to the Assembly, and he made sure to complete this symbolic journey. As he pedaled his way to the Assembly on Tuesday, the sight was indeed remarkable—a legislator navigating through Kolkata’s traffic on a traditional rickshaw, amid luxury cars and large vehicles.

Hindusthan Samachar / S P Singh