Caste Census Crucial for Inclusion
Rahul Gandhi said for Congress, the “caste census” is the foundation and a tool for policy-making. (File)
Rahul Gandhi Pushes for Nationwide Caste Census
Prayagraj: In a passionate speech during the “Samvidhan Samman Sammelan,” Congress leader Rahul Gandhi emphasized the need for a nationwide “caste census.” According to him, a staggering 90% of India’s population is excluded from the system, and a caste census would act as a critical tool for ensuring their inclusion.
Thousands Sitting Outside the System
Gandhi pointed out that a vast majority of Indians have skills and knowledge but lack the necessary connections to leverage them. “90 per cent people are sitting out of the system. They have skill and knowledge but no connections. That is why we are demanding a caste census,” said Gandhi.
The Congress leader argued that before any policies can be implemented, it is essential to understand the demographic breakdown of various societal sections. For the Congress, he said, the “caste census” is the cornerstone for policy-making.
A Second Guide Alongside the Constitution
He equated the caste census with the Constitution, describing it as a necessary guide for India. “Just like our Constitution, which is attacked every day, a caste census will be our second guide,” Gandhi remarked. He further asserted that such a census would help protect the Constitution by involving marginalized communities like Dalits, OBCs, tribals, women, and minorities.
Constitution Is for Everyone
Gandhi stressed that the Constitution was not just for a privileged 10% but for all Indian citizens. “The Constitution is protected by poor people, labourers, tribals—not industrialists like Gautam Adani,” he said. He warned that if 90% of people do not have participatory rights, the Constitution itself cannot be protected.
The PM Thinks Like a King
Gandhi accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of trying to replicate the model of ancient kings and emperors. You consider yourself non-biological, connected with God,” he jibed, adding that Modi had to bow down before the Constitution right after the Lok Sabha elections. He reaffirmed that those who oppose the caste census or believe that the 50% cap on reservations cannot be lifted are living in a dream.
Public Demand Has to Be Met
“The order of the people has come. The prime minister should accept it and implement it. If he does not, someone else will become the prime minister,” warned Gandhi. He went on to criticize the ruling BJP, stating that its leaders had been a troubling influence since he joined politics in 2004.
Need for Respect and Recognition for Skilled Worker
Gandhi shared a poignant story about meeting a skilled cobbler who feels disrespected despite his expertise. “He has so much skill but does not get any respect,” recounted Gandhi. He suggested that certification centers should be established in all districts to utilize the skills of workers like cobblers, barbers, carpenters, and washermen.
Representation in Various Sectors Is Key
The Congress leader questioned the representation of marginalized communities in India’s top corporations, judiciary, and media. “My vision is that it should be known how much wealth is in the hands of OBCs, Dalits, and laborers,” he emphasized. He criticized Modi for waiving loans worth Rs 16 lakh crore for a few individuals while excluding members of Dalit, tribal, and minority communities.
Building a Fair Policy Framework
In a post on X, Gandhi argued that the caste census would provide a comprehensive policy framework aimed at delivering social justice. “The Caste Census will act like an X-ray, revealing who has access to wealth and who is the most marginalized,” he said. He added that the data would be crucial for designing policies to revise the arbitrary 50% cap on reservations and ensure fair representation.
By pushing for a caste census, Rahul Gandhi believes India can move towards a more inclusive and just society, where every community has a voice and a role in the nation’s growth.
Stay tuned to India Press Live for more updates on this developing story.
