Rahul Gandhi, Congress MP, accused the BJP-led Centre of failing to generate sufficient employment opportunities for Dalits and other backward classes, who make up “90 per cent of the population,” and of discriminating against them in his ‘Ram Rajya.’ Gandhi made these remarks during his ‘Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra’ in Kanpur, at a public gathering at the Ghantaghar intersection in the city.
The ex-Congress President highlighted the significant class and caste disparity in India, emphasizing that the Dalits and backward communities lack representation in the media, major industries, and even in the bureaucracy. He also pointed out the alarming issue of hunger-related deaths in the nation. Referring to the Pran Pratishtha ceremony, he questioned the absence of individuals from backward classes, Dalits, and tribals, noting that even the tribal president and the former Dalit President were excluded. Gandhi reiterated his party’s and allies’ call for a caste census, stating that only through such a survey can the well-being and financial status of the backward communities be accurately assessed. He emphasized, “We firmly believe that a caste-based census is the most revolutionary step towards India’s progress.”
Gandhi further claimed that a small percentage of individuals, namely Adani, Ambani, Tata, and Birla, hold the entire wealth of the nation, effectively ruling over the rest of the population. He criticized the central government for various decisions, such as the 2016 demonetization, implementation of GST, and the Agniveer scheme.
He highlighted the negative consequences faced by the common people, including leaked papers, job terminations, imposition of GST and demonetization, and the hindrance in government recruitment. Gandhi also mentioned the closure of opportunities to join the army through the Agniveer Yojna initiated by the Modi government.
During his journey between Sohramau and Unnao, Gandhi acknowledged the people standing on the roadside and waved to them from his bus. Additionally, his convoy made a brief stop near Akrampur, where he interacted with some workers, while en route to Shuklaganj from Unnao city.