Rahul Gandhi Advocates for Caste Census, Critiques 50% Reservation Limit
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Synopsis
In a recent address, Rahul Gandhi insisted on the necessity of a caste-based census while challenging the 50% reservation limit. He emphasized the importance of understanding societal resource distribution and criticized the government's stance on the Agnipath military recruitment scheme.
Key Takeaways
- Rahul Gandhi demands a caste census for equitable resource distribution.
- He criticizes the 50% reservation cap as restrictive.
- Historical references highlight Congress's foundational leaders.
- Condemns the government's Agnipath scheme for its impact on marginalized communities.
- Calls out PM Modi's silence on international criticisms against India.
Ahmedabad, April 9 (NationPress) The Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, on Wednesday renewed his appeal for a caste-based census and asserted that the Congress intends to dismantle the 50 percent reservation cap.
During a speech at a Congress assembly in Ahmedabad, LoP Rahul Gandhi referenced the party's historical origins and drew inspiration from its illustrious past, marking two significant anniversaries.
“A century ago, Mahatma Gandhi took on the role of Congress president. And 150 years ago, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was born. These two influential figures are the cornerstone of the Congress Party,” stated LoP Rahul Gandhi.
Portraying himself as a champion for the underprivileged, he remarked, “I am dedicated to the backward classes.”
LoP Rahul Gandhi also highlighted the party’s groundbreaking initiative in Telangana, where they embarked on a caste census.
“We must understand who has what share in the resources of this nation. I urged PM Modi in Parliament: it is essential to carry out a caste census. The country must be aware of the population of Dalits, backward communities, and impoverished individuals from the general category,” asserted LoP Rahul Gandhi.
In his criticism of Prime Minister Modi and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), LoP Rahul Gandhi mentioned that they have clearly indicated their opposition to a caste census.
“They wish to obscure the truth. However, no matter how much they try to conceal it, we will pass the resolution for a caste census. We have done it in Telangana, and we will achieve it in Delhi and nationwide. We will also dismantle the 50 percent reservation barrier,” stated LoP Rahul Gandhi.
Sharing a personal story, LoP Rahul Gandhi recounted a conversation with his grandmother, the late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
“I once asked her how she wanted to be remembered after her passing. She replied, ‘Rahul, my focus is solely on my work. I don’t concern myself with what people think after I’m gone.’ This sentiment resonates with me as well. What others think is irrelevant; my priority is to perform my duties effectively,” said LoP Rahul Gandhi.
Shifting his attention to the contentious Agnipath military recruitment scheme, LoP Rahul Gandhi condemned the government’s approach.
“The government informs the youth that if you are an Agniveer and perish in battle, you will not receive martyr status or a pension. Those alongside you will be honored, but you will not. Dalits, backward classes, and the most marginalized sections are suffering,” stated LoP Rahul Gandhi.
In a pointed remark, LoP Rahul Gandhi criticized Prime Minister Modi for his “silence” during a recent meeting with the Chief Advisor of the Bangladesh government, Mohammad Yunus, despite Bangladesh allegedly making negative comments about India.
“Bangladesh is making statements against India, and our Prime Minister met their leader without saying a word. Where is the 56-inch chest now?” he questioned.
