PATNA, Jan 18: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticized the caste survey conducted by the Nitish Kumar government in Bihar, asserting that it was merely a ploy to mislead the public. He reaffirmed that his party will persist in demanding a caste census, emphasizing that such an endeavor is vital for planning development initiatives in the nation.
As the leader of the opposition in the Lok Sabha, Gandhi accused the BJP and RSS of “disregarding the Constitution and overlooking marginalized communities” throughout the country.
He further asserted that RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat’s statement on ‘true independence’ was “contrary to the Constitution of India”.
While speaking at the ‘Samvidhan Suraksha Sammelan’ at Bapu Sabhagar, Gandhi remarked, “Dalits, minorities, and socially marginalized individuals represent 90 percent of the populace in this country, yet they remain outside the system…. This is why we are advocating for a caste census.”
He continued, claiming, “I have made it clear to leaders in Parliament, in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji, that our party will ensure this is passed at any cost.”
Gandhi emphasized the significance of a nationwide caste census for evaluating the involvement of OBCs, Dalits, and laborers in the bureaucracy and various sectors.
“A caste census should not only determine the number of different castes but also their contribution to national wealth… We reject the caste survey conducted by the Bihar government, as it was merely an attempt to deceive the populace,” the Congress leader contended.
Additionally, he stated that the existing 50 percent reservation limit for SCs, STs, and OBCs is “insufficient”.
“We aim to raise this cap for the benefit of the majority. A select few organizations, notably the RSS and its affiliates, along with industrial entities, are monopolizing the governance of the country,” he alleged.
Gandhi highlighted that the country’s Constitution is “not merely a book” but speaks about the struggles and injustices faced by Dalits.
Commenting on RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat’s assertion regarding ‘true independence’, Gandhi charged, “His remarks concerning India’s true independence following the Ram temple consecration contradict the Constitution. The BJP and the RSS are undermining the Constitution and disregarding marginalized groups.”
He concluded by stating that the political struggle is between “those who strive to uphold the Constitution and those who propagate hatred.” (PTI)
