Rahul Gandhi on Caste Census, Reservations, and Jharkhand’s Development: A Comprehensive Address
Ranchi, November 18, 2024:
At a press conference held in Ranchi on Monday, Congress Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, spoke passionately about the caste census, its potential to reshape India’s politics, and the urgent need for justice for marginalized communities. In his address, Gandhi emphasized the significance of collecting accurate data on caste representation to address long-standing inequities and ensure a more inclusive future for all sections of society.
Caste Census and Its Implications for Justice
Rahul Gandhi framed the upcoming caste census as a pivotal moment in India’s history, asserting that it would “fundamentally change the country’s politics and social systems.” He argued that accurate data on the participation of Backward Classes, Dalits, and Tribals in key power structures would pave the way for more equitable policymaking.
“In today’s time, data is crucial,” Gandhi stated. “Once we have accurate data, we can develop policies to ensure justice for all sections.” He highlighted the current lack of data on these communities, which, according to him, hinders effective policymaking and the fair distribution of resources.
Gandhi pointed to the example of Congress-led state governments in Karnataka and Telangana, which are already consulting with citizens about the inclusion of questions on caste in the census. He emphasized that this consultative approach would ensure that the voices of marginalized communities are central to the process.
“We have a complete road map, and we are getting valuable suggestions on how to structure this census,” he said.
Expanding Reservations and Strengthening Justice
The LoP argued that the absence of reliable data on caste representation means that current reservations, which make up about 50 percent of India’s population, are not adequately justified. He revealed that approximately 15 percent of the population is Dalit, 8 percent are tribals, and the majority belong to Backward Classes. However, the extent of their representation in key institutions remains unknown.
“Once this data is available, we can justify expanding the current 50 percent reservation cap,” Gandhi said, underscoring the need for broader inclusion.
Further, Rahul Gandhi reiterated his unequivocal support for reservation policies in India, directly responding to accusations from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who claimed that Gandhi opposes such measures. “I fully support reservations,” he stated, accusing Modi of evading questions about the need for a caste census to ensure the fair implementation of reservation policies.
Commitment to Jharkhand’s Welfare
Turning to Jharkhand, Gandhi pledged to increase reservation quotas in the state if Congress were to come to power. He promised to raise the tribal reservation from 26 percent to 28 percent, the Dalit quota from 12 percent to 14 percent, and the Backward Class reservation from 14 percent to 27 percent.
Rahul Gandhi also took a strong stand against the BJP’s portrayal of tribals, condemning the party’s labeling of them as “forest dwellers.” He called this an insult to the tribal community and accused the BJP of harboring anti-tribal sentiments.
“Tribal communities are the backbone of our society, and the BJP’s rhetoric only deepens the divide,” Gandhi said.
Additionally, he alleged that the central government has withheld funds amounting to Rs 1.36 lakh crore from Jharkhand, which should be allocated for land compensation and coal royalties. He emphasized that this money should be directed toward the development of the state’s marginalized communities, including the Backward Classes, Dalits, and tribals.
Defending Welfare Schemes and the Issue of ‘Freebies’
In a sharp rebuttal to the BJP’s repeated criticism of welfare schemes, Rahul Gandhi defended the Congress’ commitment to providing financial support to the poor. He rejected the term “freebies” used by the BJP to describe such initiatives, calling it an insult to the marginalized.
“The government waives large debts of industrialists and billionaires, but not of the poor,” Gandhi remarked.
He outlined the Congress party’s vision for Jharkhand, which includes direct support to women in the form of Rs 2,500 monthly payments, subsidized gas cylinders at Rs 450, and seven kg of grain per person every month. Additionally, he proposed an increase in the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for paddy from Rs 2,400 to Rs 3,200 per quintal.
Gandhi also highlighted a healthcare plan for the state, proposing a Rs 15 lakh health insurance scheme and the creation of 10 lakh jobs in Jharkhand over the next five years.
Challenges to Job Creation and BJP’s Hindrances
When questioned about the state government’s unfulfilled promises of job creation, Rahul Gandhi pointed the finger at the BJP, accusing the ruling party of obstructing efforts to create jobs and stalling national economic progress. He blamed policies such as demonetisation and the Goods and Services Tax (GST) for stagnating job growth across the country.
“The BJP’s flawed policies have resulted in job losses and economic distress for millions of families,” Gandhi said.
A Battle of Ideologies in Jharkhand
Looking ahead to the upcoming elections in Jharkhand, Rahul Gandhi framed the contest as a battle of ideologies. “On one side, there are those who want to save the Constitution and increase reservations, and on the other, the RSS, which seeks to destroy the Constitution,” he declared.
He further noted the ongoing violence in Manipur, expressing concern over the lack of intervention by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. “We walked 4,000 km during the Bharat Jodo Yatra with the message of love. The BJP, on the other hand, spreads hatred, which has ignited the current unrest,” Gandhi remarked.
