In a significant announcement, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has vowed to initiate a nationwide caste census and eliminate the 50 percent cap on reservation if the INDIA bloc secures power at the Centre following the Lok Sabha elections.
Addressing a rally at Shaheed Maidan in Ranchi, the capital of Jharkhand, Mr. Gandhi accused the BJP of attempting to destabilize the JMM-Congress-RJD government in Jharkhand because the Chief Minister belonged to a tribal community. He commended the alliance MLAs for thwarting what he termed as a BJP-RSS conspiracy and safeguarding the interests of the underprivileged.
Highlighting the marginalized status of Dalits, tribals, and Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in various sectors, Mr. Gandhi stressed the necessity of conducting a comprehensive caste census. He emphasized that this step would pave the way for addressing social and economic injustices prevalent in Indian society.
Promising to lift the existing 50 percent cap on reservation, Mr. Gandhi assured that the rights of Dalits, Adivasis, and other backward sections of society would be protected under an Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance government. He criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his alleged inconsistency on caste-related issues, accusing him of disregarding the concerns of marginalized communities.
Mr. Gandhi’s remarks came in the aftermath of the successful trust vote won by the Champai Soren-led government in Jharkhand. He lambasted the BJP for its purported attempts to destabilize opposition-ruled states and suppress democratic voices using investigative agencies and financial power.
Asserting the commitment of the INDIA coalition to uphold democratic principles, Mr. Gandhi underscored the importance of safeguarding the Constitution and ensuring that the rights of all citizens, especially the marginalized, are protected.
The announcement made during Mr. Gandhi’s Manipur-to-Maharashtra Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra underscores the significance of social justice and equitable representation in Indian governance. As the political landscape evolves ahead of the upcoming elections, Mr. Gandhi’s promises resonate with the aspirations of millions of marginalized individuals striving for equal opportunities and recognition in society.
Sources By Agencies
