Rahul Gandhi Criticizes Lack of Representation in Miss India, Calls for Caste Census
News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/25th August 2024
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has once again voiced his strong support for a nationwide caste census, underscoring the need for greater representation of marginalized communities. Speaking at the Samvidhan Samman Sammelan in Prayagraj, Gandhi highlighted the glaring absence of Dalit, Tribal, and Other Backward Classes (OBC) women in the Miss India pageant, pointing to this as a reflection of broader societal inequities.
During his address, Gandhi noted that despite the diversity of India, the Miss India pageant list lacked representation from Dalit, Tribal, or OBC women. This observation served as a critique of the systemic barriers that continue to exclude marginalized communities from opportunities and platforms. Gandhi’s remarks draw attention to the deeper issue of social exclusion, urging the nation to confront and address these disparities.
Gandhi’s comments also took aim at the media, which he accused of neglecting the concerns of farmers and laborers in favor of entertainment and celebrity news. He argued that the struggles of India’s working class, particularly those from marginalized communities, are often overshadowed by topics like Bollywood, cricket, and music. This, he suggested, contributes to a disconnect between the media’s focus and the realities faced by a significant portion of the population.
One of Gandhi’s key proposals was the removal of the 50% cap on reservations. He asserted that this limit is outdated and does not reflect the needs of India’s diverse population. He emphasized that a caste census is essential for understanding the participation of different castes in various institutions and for ensuring that policies are informed by accurate data. According to Gandhi, the Congress party, if elected to power, would prioritize the completion of a caste census and work towards adjusting the reservation system to better serve those who have historically been marginalized.
Gandhi also criticized the Narendra Modi-led Central government for its recent lateral entry recruitment processes. He suggested that these methods are exclusionary, favoring only a small percentage of the population while leaving the vast majority out of the system. He claimed that despite the talent and skills possessed by many, they are systematically denied entry into important roles due to entrenched biases and discriminatory practices.
The caste census, according to Gandhi, is not just a data-gathering exercise but a crucial tool for shaping policy that truly reflects India’s social structure. He emphasized that understanding the distribution of wealth and power across different communities is necessary for creating a more equitable society. Gandhi’s call for a caste census is rooted in the belief that only by acknowledging and addressing these disparities can India move towards true social justice.
In conclusion, Rahul Gandhi’s remarks at the Samvidhan Samman Sammelan highlight the urgent need for a caste census and a reevaluation of the reservation system. His critique of the Miss India pageant and the media’s focus serves as a broader commentary on the social exclusion faced by marginalized communities in India. By advocating for a caste census, Gandhi is calling for a more inclusive and representative society where the voices and talents of all Indians, regardless of caste or background, are recognized and valued.
