Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat has dismissed the Congress party’s pledge to conduct a caste census in Rajasthan if re-elected, asserting that such an endeavor falls beyond the state government’s jurisdiction. Shekhawat contended that, according to the constitution, the authority for such a census rests solely with the central government, accusing the Ashok Gehlot-led administration of attempting to sow division.
Responding to the Congress’s electoral promise, Shekhawat remarked, “They can never do (caste census) because it is not in the purview of the state government.” He further criticized the Congress for allegedly perpetuating societal divisions.
Earlier today, the Congress released its election manifesto for Rajasthan, vowing to conduct a caste-based census to formulate policies aimed at equitable social welfare. Additionally, the party pledged reservations for minorities based on their population after the census.
The manifesto, unveiled by Congress leaders including Mallikarjun Kharge and Ashok Gehlot, also promised an increase in health insurance benefits under the Chiranjeevi Health Insurance scheme from ₹25 lakh to ₹50 lakh annually.
The forthcoming assembly elections in Rajasthan are scheduled for November 25, with vote counting set for December 3.
Sources By Agencies
