Congress Advocates for Justice on Ambedkar Jayanti : Congress to Advocate for Social Justice: Kharge's 5 Essential Demands on Ambedkar Jayanti

New Delhi, April 14 (NationPress) On the anniversary of Dr Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar's birth, Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge emphasized his party's pledge to social justice by unveiling a five-point demand, including a renewed call for a nationwide caste census. He asserted that the Congress Party would champion these demands from the streets to the Parliament.

While addressing the media, Kharge highlighted the necessity for a current general census to facilitate the effective execution of welfare programs.

"To begin with, I must assert that a caste census is imperative. At present, the central government's plans are based on the 2011 Census. We still await clarity on the census intended for 2021," Kharge remarked.

He stressed the importance of conducting a caste-based census alongside the general one, as there remains a lack of accurate data regarding the present status of various societal segments.

"After so many years, the actual conditions of different societal sections remain unclear. We are still unaware of their progress concerning social justice in areas like education, employment, housing, and land ownership," Kharge noted.

He further stated that to effectively implement schemes, it is crucial to identify which population segments require the most assistance.

Pointing out the postponement of a new census, the Congress leader remarked, "It remains uncertain who is benefiting and at what rate, given that the government has not conducted any census."

Turning to his second demand, Kharge accused the Prime Minister Narendra Modi administration of abolishing the SC-ST Sub-Plan, initially introduced by late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1976.

"In 1976, Indira Gandhi implemented the SC-ST Sub-Plan to provide proper justice to these communities. Sadly, in 2015, PM Modi repealed it, showing no interest in adhering to Baba Saheb's principles," Kharge claimed.

He pointed out that Congress-led state governments in Karnataka and Telangana have successfully enacted the Sub-Plan.

"We urge the BJP government to restore the SC-ST Sub-Plan at the national level," Kharge asserted.

For his third demand, Kharge advocated for the removal of the 50 per cent cap on reservations.

"No state except Tamil Nadu has secured reservations. We demand that state reservations be included in Schedule 9 to ensure quotas are secured by lifting the 50 per cent ceiling," he stated.

Kharge's fourth demand focused on reservations in private educational institutions.

Referring to the 2006 constitutional amendment under Article 15(5), which allowed for reservations for SC, ST, and OBC categories in private colleges, Kharge mentioned that the Supreme Court upheld this in 2014, yet the central government has failed to implement it.

"Today, 55 per cent of higher education institutions are privately owned. How will our children receive education?" he questioned.

He criticized the Union government for its inaction, asserting, "The Modi government is complacent. I demand that this become a legal right and be enforced without delay. This would be the greatest homage to Baba Saheb!"

Regarding his final demand, Kharge mentioned the Women's Reservation Bill that was passed two years ago.

"When the Women's Reservation Bill was approved, the Congress party insisted on its immediate implementation, alongside ensuring a one-third reservation for SC, ST, and OBC women," he remarked.

In conclusion, Kharge affirmed, "The Congress Party will advocate for these five demands from the streets to the Parliament," reaffirming the party's commitment to the principles of equality, justice, and representation as envisioned by Dr Ambedkar.