Rahul Gandhi reiterates demand for caste census, claims ‘90% of population is excluded from system’
The Congress also criticised Home Minister Amit Shah’s statement that the census, pending since 2020, would be held at an ‘appropriate time’.
Join our WhatsApp Community to receive travel deals, free stays, and special offers!
- Join Now -
Join our WhatsApp Community to receive travel deals, free stays, and special offers!
- Join Now -
Ninety percent of the country’s population is excluded from the system and efforts in their interest should be made, said Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Saturday while demanding a nationwide caste census, reported PTI.
Speaking at the Samvidhan Samman Sammelan in Uttar Pradesh’s Prayagraj, Gandhi also stated that for Congress, a caste census is both a fundamental basis and a tool for policymaking.
“Like the Constitution, the caste census serves as a policy framework and guide for the Congress,” he said. “We cannot make policies in the reality of India without a caste census.”
The Congress leader also said the population excluded from the system has skills and knowledge, “but no connections [with the system]”.
“That is why we have raised the demand for a caste census,” said Gandhi, adding that it is essential to determine the numbers of various sections of the society to ensure their participation.
He stated that the Constitution is “there for all citizens, not just the 10%”.
“We want the data,” said Gandhi. “How many Dalits, OBC [Other Backward Classes], tribals, women, minorities, and general caste people are there. We are trying to protect the Constitution through this demand for a caste census.”
According to Gandhi, the Constitution is “protected by poor people, labourers, tribals and not [industrialist Gautam]...
