Why Does Rahul Welcome the Caste Census Decision?

New Delhi, April 30 (NationPress) — Following the Central government's decision to incorporate caste enumeration in the forthcoming national census, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi emphasized that this initiative aligns with the Congress' enduring vision for social justice. He remarked that the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has succumbed to pressure and is now embracing a pivotal aspect of the Opposition's developmental agenda.

“We had asserted in Parliament that a caste census would be conducted. We also vowed to eliminate the 50% cap, which is an arbitrary limitation on reservations. Previously, PM Modi claimed there were only four castes. It is unclear what has changed, but after 11 years, the caste census is finally being announced,” stated Rahul Gandhi.

He highlighted Telangana as a successful model for executing such a census effectively. "Telangana has showcased a commendable approach to the caste census, which could serve as a blueprint for the nation," he noted.

“We have two contrasting models available—Bihar and Telangana—and the differences between them are striking,” Rahul remarked.

Reinforcing the Congress' dedication to a caste-based census, Gandhi stated that this undertaking is merely the initial phase in a larger "new development paradigm" aimed at empowering marginalized communities.

Additionally, he expressed: "Our vision is to establish a new development model grounded in the Caste Census. What is the actual involvement of OBCs, Dalits, or Adivasis in the nation's progress?” he questioned, underscoring the necessity for data-driven policies to address entrenched inequality.

Rahul Gandhi also expressed his support for the government in formulating and implementing the caste census, while calling for enhanced transparency and a definitive timeline.

“We wholeheartedly endorse the government's decision and are willing to assist in designing the caste census, utilizing models like Telangana’s as a reference. However, the government must provide a clear timeline,” he noted.

Interestingly, Rahul Gandhi also responded to the Prime Minister’s earlier statements regarding there being only “four castes.” He indicated that while the Congress does not oppose this perspective, it seeks clarification on how the broader realities of caste inequality will be quantified and addressed.

In addition to advocating for the caste count, the Congress leader raised another issue from the party’s manifesto—implementing reservations in private educational institutions under Article 15(5) of the Constitution.

“This is already legislated,” he stated, urging the BJP-led NDA government to commence enforcement.