About Us - Dr. Udit Raj

Dr. Udit Raj: A Life Dedicated to Advocacy and Reform

“Championing Equality and Justice for All”

Born in Ram Nagar, Allahabad, Dr. Udit Raj, son of Shri Kallan Singh and Smt. Sukh Dei, began his journey at Jawahar Lal Nehru University in 1980. Overcoming economic hardships, he cleared the Civil Services Examination in 1988 and served in the Indian Revenue Service in Ghaziabad and Delhi. Dr. Raj, who holds M.A and L.L.B degrees, received an honorary doctorate from Emmanuel Bible College, Kota, and has authored 355 articles.

Married to Seema Bahl in 1990 and a father of two, he left his government role in 2003 for socio-political work. As the leader of the All India Confederation of SC/ST Organizations, he helped enact the 81st, 82nd, and 85th Constitutional amendments. Serving as North West Delhi’s MP (2014-2019), he later joined the Indian National Congress in 2019. Internationally, he’s active with the UN in Geneva and leads the Buddha Education Foundation and the Dalit International Foundation. He edits ‘Voice of Buddha’ and is a part of India’s National Monitoring Committee for Education of SC/ST & PWD, advocating for marginalized communities. His work inspires a push for greater societal equity.

Educational Journey

Birth and Background: Born in Ram Nagar village, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh to Shri Kallan Singh and Smt. Sukh Dei.
Education: Completed intermediate studies locally before enrolling at Jawahar Lal Nehru University, New Delhi in 1980.
Activism During College: Actively involved in socio-political activities throughout his college years, which sometimes impacted his academic focus.
Civil Services Preparation: Faced with financial constraints, shifted focus to preparing for the Civil Services Examination.
Indian Revenue Service: Cleared the Civil Services Exam in 1988 and was selected for the elite Indian Revenue Service.

Early Career: First posted in Ghaziabad as Assistant Commissioner of Income Tax in 1990; transferred to Delhi in 1995, serving in key positions such as Deputy Commissioner, Joint Commissioner, and Additional Commissioner of Income Tax.
Advanced Education: Earned M.A and L.L.B degrees and was awarded a Doctorate Degree Honoris Causa from Emmanuel Bible College and Seminary, Kota, Rajasthan.
International Engagement: Recognized for his intellectual contributions in the U.S.A and Europe, holds dialogues with Congressmen of the U.S.A and members of the European Parliament.
Writing: A prolific writer, has published 355 articles in various national newspapers.
Alumni Organization: Co-founder of the alumni organization for Jawahar Lal Nehru University, establishing a network for former students.

Professional Life

Formation of All India Confederation of SC/ST Organization: In response to anti-reservation orders issued in 1997, Dr. Udit Raj helped form the All India Confederation of SC/ST Organization, uniting various intellectuals and departments across the country.
Leadership and Advocacy: Appointed as the National Chairman, he led numerous campaigns and demonstrations nationwide from 1997 to 2000, advocating against anti-reservation orders.
Influential Rallies: Organized several national-level rallies in Delhi, effectively managing media narratives and turning public opinion in his favor against competing rallies by BSP.
Legislative Impact: Instrumental in the passing of the 81st, 82nd, and 85th Constitutional amendments under the Atal Bihari Government, securing vital reservation benefits.
Commitment to Social Equality: Dedicated to creating a casteless society, following the principles of Dr. Ambedkar, by working to eradicate discrimination and the divisive caste system.
Political Shift: Initially joined BJP, advocating for the welfare of SC/ST and backward sections and the nation's integrity. However, due to ideological differences and perceived betrayals, he left BJP.
Joining Congress: On 24th April 2019, disillusioned with the BJP's approach to inclusivity and its internal politics, Dr. Raj joined the Indian National Congress to continue his advocacy for underprivileged communities.

Crusader of Justice

International Advocacy: Actively raises issues concerning the downtrodden at the United Nations Organization in Geneva.
Leadership in Foundations: Serves as the Chairman of the Buddha Education Foundation and the Dalit International Foundation.
Media Contributions: Editor of the bi-lingual fortnightly magazine, ‘Voice of Buddha’, which focuses on social justice and reform.
1997 Campaign: Addressed and resolved significant issues impacting millions of underprivileged individuals.
2006 Reservation Campaign: Launched a campaign advocating for reservation for backward sections in higher education.
Land Rights Campaign 2006: Played a key role in the movement led by former Prime Minister Shree V.P. Singh to return land acquired by the Samajwadi Party and allotted to Reliance Company, back to the farmers.
DDA Scandal Exposure 2008-2009: Exposed a major corruption scandal in the Delhi Development Authority, resulting in judicial action and instilling a caution against corruption among DDA employees.
Educational Reform: Opposed the four-year degree course syllabus, advocating for curricular reforms beneficial to students’ needs.
Government Committees: Held esteemed positions such as a member of the National Integration Council and the National Monitoring Committee for Education of SC/ST & PWD under the Ministry of Human Resource Development, representing educational interests of marginalized communities.

As Parliamentarian

Dr. Udit Raj: Championing Reform and Excellence in the Indian Parliament

Dr. Udit Raj, representing North West Delhi, has exemplified the epitome of parliamentary dedication and effectiveness during his tenure as a Member of Parliament with the Bharatiya Janata Party. Elected to office on May 18, 2014, Dr. Raj has been a formidable presence in the Lok Sabha, consistently maintaining an impressive 98% attendance record, which speaks volumes about his commitment to his duties. An active participant in parliamentary debates, he has engaged in 94 debates, showcasing his prowess in addressing and advocating on crucial issues. His proactive approach is further demonstrated by the 311 questions he has raised, reflecting his vigilance and dedication to the concerns of his constituents and broader national interests. Additionally, Dr. Raj has distinguished himself by proposing 25 private members’ bills, highlighting his initiative and leadership in legislative development. His contributions to the Standing Committee on Social Justice and Empowerment further underscore his commitment to social equity and justice, solidifying his reputation as a dedicated and influential parliamentarian.

Constituency and Party Affiliation: Represents North West Delhi; Member of Bharatiya Janata Party.
Term Details: Elected to start his term on May 18, 2014; currently in his first term.
Committee Membership: Active member of the Standing Committee on Social Justice and Empowerment.
Attendance Record: Maintained an exemplary attendance record of 98%, demonstrating his commitment to his parliamentary duties.
Debate Participation: Actively participated in 94 debates, showcasing his engagement and advocacy on key issues.
Questions Asked: Raised 311 questions, highlighting his role in oversight and accountability in governance.
Private Members’ Bills: Introduced 25 private members’ bills, indicating his proactive approach to legislative changes and social reforms.

Achievements

Constitutional Amendments Champion, 1997-2000: Led movements that secured the 81st, 82nd, and 85th Constitutional Amendments, safeguarding reservation rights amid significant challenges.
Catalyst for Cultural Transformation, 2001: Orchestrated a mass conversion to Buddhism, symbolizing a profound shift from caste-based identities.
Pioneer of Reservation in Private Sector: Initiated advocacy for reservation in the private sector, influencing significant policy discussions and proposals under the Manmohan Singh government.
Defender of Educational Equality, 2006: Successfully defended reservation for OBCs in higher education, ensuring continued access to opportunities for backward classes.

Voice for the Voiceless at International Forums: Addressed Dalit issues and caste discrimination at global platforms such as the US Congress and United Nations.
Crusader for Reservation in Promotion: Played a pivotal role in maintaining reservation in promotions, especially highlighted during the Supreme Court debates in 2006 and subsequent challenges up to 2011.