Caste Census: A Diagnostic Tool for Society, Says Rahul Gandhi

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Caste Census: A Diagnostic Tool for Society, Says Rahul Gandhi

Synopsis

On January 18, in Patna, Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition, likened the caste census to an X-ray and MRI for society, emphasizing its role in diagnosing social inequalities and advocating for expanded reservations.

Key Takeaways

  • Caste census is crucial for social diagnostics.
  • Congress aims to remove the 50% reservation cap.
  • Public support is essential for the caste census initiative.
  • Marginalized communities need equitable representation.
  • Criticism of the current government’s approach to power dynamics.

Patna, Jan 18 (NationPress) The Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, remarked that the caste census serves as an X-ray and MRI for society.

"The caste census functions like an X-ray and MRI for society. It is a vital instrument to identify and rectify the entrenched inequalities afflicting our nation. The Congress party is determined to enhance the reservation cap. The 50 percent ceiling on reservations will be dismantled and eliminated. The reservation system's scope needs to extend beyond 50 percent," stated LoP Rahul Gandhi while speaking at the Samvidhan Suraksha Sammelan at Bapu Sabhagar in Patna.

The LoP reiterated his party's dedication to the caste census, vowing to advocate for its approval in both houses of Parliament (Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha).

He urged the public to rally support for the caste census initiative, which he deemed crucial for achieving social justice and equity.

The advocacy for the caste census and the expansion of reservation limits has been a primary emphasis for the Congress party recently, with leaders positioning it as a step toward uplifting marginalized communities and confronting systemic inequalities.

LoP Rahul Gandhi, in a pointed criticism of the existing system, stressed that without a caste census, the nation's progress is unattainable.

"The entirety of India's structure is failing. Even though marginalized communities represent nearly 90 percent of the population, they have minimal representation in private sectors, healthcare facilities, or major economic enterprises. You invest substantial amounts in private hospitals and universities annually yet have no ownership in them. You contribute the highest GST, yet where does your money go? It goes to private hospitals, private universities, and large corporations," he noted during his address.

LoP Rahul Gandhi also criticized the Modi-led government while reaffirming his commitment to protecting the Constitution.

"I have been traversing the nation to raise awareness and champion the principles enshrined in our Constitution. There is an ongoing struggle between the Constitution and Manuism (Manuwad). Despite political challenges, we remain dedicated to this mission and are prepared to face any consequences," he commented.

LoP Rahul Gandhi further condemned the increasing concentration of power among 500 large business entities and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).

He alleged that the RSS is systematically positioning its affiliates in crucial power roles across the country.

"RSS affiliates hold thousands of influential positions within the system. You will not find any backward or Dalit individuals in these roles of authority. Legislative Assembly (MLA) and Parliamentary (MP) members express feelings of helplessness. The Dalit and tribal representatives of the BJP claim they feel caged and powerless. Presently, the largest corporations in India lack representation from backward or Dalit communities," concluded LoP Rahul Gandhi.