Synopsis
In a recent event in Patna, Rahul Gandhi emphasized the necessity of a nationwide caste census to improve representation of Dalits, OBCs, and tribals in India's power structures. He criticized the Bihar government's approach and called for a fairer evaluation of representation across sectors.Key Takeaways
- Rahul Gandhi pushes for a nationwide caste census.
- Dalits, OBCs, and tribals are underrepresented in governance.
- Criticism of Bihar's caste survey methodology.
- Media bias affects representation.
- Need for leadership roles for Dalits and OBCs in major sectors.
Patna, Feb 5 (NationPress) The Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, on Wednesday renewed his call for a nationwide caste census, asserting that Dalits, Other Backward Classes (OBCs), and tribals lack adequate representation in India's power framework across various sectors such as education, healthcare, corporate, business, and the judiciary.
During an event in Patna commemorating the birth anniversary of freedom fighter Jaglal Chaudhary, Rahul Gandhi criticized the prevailing system, stating: "Dalits have been given representation, but due to lack of actual participation in the power structure, it means nothing."
He underscored the importance of conducting a caste census to ensure equitable representation in governance, business, and administration.
Additionally, he criticized the Bihar government's caste survey, arguing that it should align with the approach taken by Telangana, rather than the current methodology used in the eastern state.
"The Caste Census will reveal the true number of Dalits, backward classes, minorities, and economically disadvantaged individuals from the general category. Based on this data, we will evaluate their representation in the judiciary, media, institutions, and bureaucracy to uncover the reality," he stated.
Rahul Gandhi accused the BJP and RSS of attempting to undermine the Constitution, claiming they are systematically diminishing representation instead of making direct alterations. He remarked: "They (BJP-RSS) provide tickets, but they don’t confer real power."
Moreover, the Congress leader highlighted the issue of "media bias," alleging that government funding through advertisements primarily benefits large media conglomerates, marginalizing Dalits and OBCs.
He noted that not a single Dalit, OBC, or tribal occupies a leadership position in India's top 200 companies.
"Ninety bureaucrats determine India's budget, yet only three are Dalits, and they occupy minor roles. Of every Rs 100 spent by the government, Dalit officers influence merely Re 1, while OBC officers have a say in just Rs 6, despite comprising over 50 percent of the population. We demand Dalits, Tribals, and OBCs in leadership roles," he emphasized.
He reiterated that his party aims to ensure proportional representation of Dalits, Tribals, and OBCs in leadership positions.
"For genuine representation, a caste census is imperative. Our struggle is to guarantee that Dalits, tribals, and backward classes attain leadership roles," the former Congress chief concluded.
