Rahul Gandhi Stresses Need for Caste Census, Calls It Essential for Justice
Nagpur, India – On Wednesday, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi reiterated his support for a caste-based census, calling it a crucial step toward addressing the historical injustices faced by Dalits, Other Backward Classes (OBCs), and Adivasis. Speaking at the Samvidhan Samman Sammelan in Nagpur, Gandhi emphasized that the exercise would expose the stark inequalities present in the country, particularly in the distribution of power and resources.
“Caste census will make everything clear. Everyone will come to know how much power they wield and what our role is,” Gandhi asserted, underlining the importance of the initiative in revealing the socio-political realities of India’s marginalized communities. He also described the caste census as a “paradigm of development,” aiming to empower the most disadvantaged groups by providing data that can influence policies and decisions aimed at ensuring social justice.
In his address, Gandhi vowed that the caste census would pave the way for the removal of barriers that limit access to resources and opportunities for the marginalized. “We will also break the 50 per cent (reservation cap) wall,” he stated, referring to the reservation limits for OBCs, Dalits, and Adivasis. This was a direct critique of existing reservation policies, which he claimed need to be re-evaluated in light of the socio-economic realities of these communities.
Furthermore, Gandhi underscored the Congress party’s commitment to securing justice for over 90 percent of the marginalized population in the country. “We have to tell the country that we are fighting to secure justice for these people, who have been ignored and sidelined for decades,” he said.
Defending the Constitution and Dr. Ambedkar’s Vision
In a passionate defense of India’s Constitution, Gandhi reiterated that it was not merely a legal document but a “way of life” for the nation, echoing the values enshrined by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the chief architect of the Indian Constitution. He strongly condemned attempts by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to undermine the Constitution, accusing them of attacking the very soul of the nation.
“When people from the RSS and BJP attack the Constitution, they are attacking the voice of the country,” Gandhi said, emphasizing the importance of protecting the Constitution’s principles of equality, justice, and social inclusivity.
Criticism of Economic Inequality and Corporate Practices
Gandhi also took aim at the corporate sector, particularly the management practices of the Adani Group. He pointed out the absence of Dalits, OBCs, and Adivasis in the top echelons of major companies, such as Adani, as a reflection of the systemic exclusion of marginalized communities from economic opportunities.
“You won’t find a single Dalit, OBC, or Adivasi in the management of the Adani company,” he remarked. Gandhi’s comments were part of a broader critique of the current economic system, which he believes disproportionately benefits a small elite while leaving the majority of the population struggling. He further criticized the government’s policies that he argues are designed to protect the wealth of a select few, highlighting the contrast between the waiving of debts worth Rs. 16 lakh crore for a handful of corporate entities and the lack of support for struggling farmers.
“When I speak of farmers’ loan waivers, I am attacked for changing the habits of these people,” Gandhi said, drawing attention to the disconnect between the government’s priorities and the needs of the common people, particularly the agricultural sector.
Conclusion: A Call for Social and Economic Reform
Rahul Gandhi’s speech in Nagpur was a clear call for greater attention to be paid to the plight of marginalized communities in India. By advocating for a caste census and criticizing the current socio-political and economic systems, Gandhi sought to highlight the deep-rooted inequalities that continue to affect Dalits, OBCs, and Adivasis. He framed the caste census not just as a tool for social empowerment, but as a necessary step toward building a more just and inclusive India, in line with the values envisioned by Dr. Ambedkar in the Constitution.
As India continues to grapple with questions of social justice, economic disparity, and political representation, Gandhi’s remarks serve as a reminder of the need for policies and frameworks that truly reflect the aspirations and struggles of the country’s most marginalized groups.
