Hyderabad: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi launched a scathing critique of the BJP during an election rally on Sunday, asserting that Prime Minister Narendra Modi harbored opposition towards reservations and sought to diminish quota provisions for the populace.
Speaking at an election rally in Nirmal within the Adilabad (ST) Lok Sabha constituency in Telangana, Gandhi contended that the ongoing general elections symbolize a clash between two ideologies. He posited that while the Congress endeavors to uphold the Constitution, the BJP-RSS alliance aims to dismantle it along with the rights of the people.
“Narendra Modi ji opposes reservations. He intends to diminish reservations for you. The paramount issue confronting the nation is the expansion of reservations beyond the 50 per cent limit,” Gandhi affirmed.
The Congress, as part of its manifesto commitments, pledges to exceed the 50 per cent reservation cap if elected to power at the Centre, Gandhi noted.
Accusing BJP leaders of harboring similar sentiments against reservations, Gandhi criticized the Modi-led government for privatizing the public sector and implementing contractual employment arrangements, which, according to him, undermine reservation policies.
“We will abolish contract systems within government offices and the public sector, ensuring the availability of permanent employment opportunities,” he vowed.
Gandhi underscored that PM Modi has refrained from mentioning the removal of the 50 per cent reservation barrier in his speeches thus far, contrary to claims made by BJP leaders.
He warned that BJP’s victory would pave the way for constitutional amendments that could endanger reservation provisions, emphasizing the BJP’s alleged desire to perpetuate backwardness among marginalized communities.
Touching upon economic disparities, Gandhi criticized PM Modi’s alleged favoritism towards a select group of individuals by waiving off loans worth Rs 16 lakh crore, equivalent to the sum of 24 years’ worth of MNREGA funds, which, according to him, benefited only a handful of individuals.
Switching focus to the Congress’s proposed policies, Gandhi highlighted the implementation of women’s free travel in state-run buses in Telangana as an example of the party’s commitment to fulfilling election promises.
He further outlined plans for financial assistance under the Mahalakshmi scheme, promising Rs 1.3 lakh annually to empower women in Telangana, with Rs 1 lakh allocated from the Centre and an additional Rs 30,000 from the state government.
As a symbolic gesture of inclusivity, Gandhi announced intentions to establish a “Mohabaat ki Dukaan” (Shop of Love) in Delhi, underscoring a dedication to inclusive governance and social welfare initiatives.
