At Patna meet, Rahul Gandhi pushes for caste census, slams RSS-BJP

IANS April 7, 2025 220 views

Rahul Gandhi delivered a powerful speech in Patna, challenging the RSS-BJP's stance on caste census and social representation. He argued that a caste-based census is crucial for understanding societal dynamics and creating inclusive policies. Gandhi highlighted the Congress party's internal reforms, showcasing a shift towards more diverse leadership. His address emphasized the importance of constitutional values and the ongoing struggle for social justice.

"A caste-based census is like an x-ray of society" - Rahul Gandhi
At Patna meet, Rahul Gandhi pushes for caste census, slams RSS-BJP
Patna, April 7: Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday launched a sharp attack on the BJP-RSS leadership, accusing them of opposing a caste-based census and asserting that the Congress would ensure social justice by shaping policies based on ground realities.

Key Points

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Congress pushes for comprehensive caste survey revealing population realities

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Gandhi criticizes RSS ideology and economic inequality

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Bihar Congress transforms leadership representation with inclusive approach

Speaking at the Samvidhan Bachao Sammelan at Sri Krishna Memorial Hall in Patna, Gandhi directly targeted RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, saying, “Mohan Bhagwat says there is no need for a caste census. I want to tell him -- a caste-based census is like an x-ray of society. It reveals the real picture of the population and helps frame inclusive policies.”

He cited the Congress-led caste survey in Telangana as a model, claiming it had the potential to reshape the state’s political landscape. “We’ve already seen its impact in Telangana. The same change is possible across the country,” he said.

Gandhi also highlighted internal reforms within the Bihar Congress, noting a shift in leadership representation. “Earlier, two-thirds of our district presidents in Bihar were from upper castes. Under Mallikarjun Kharge’s leadership, that has changed. Today, two-thirds come from OBC, EBC, Dalit, and Mahadalit communities. We’ve aligned leadership roles with population realities,” he said.

Urging party workers to connect with marginalized communities, Gandhi emphasized the need to build a people-centric political movement. “Bihar has always led transformative movements. This time too, Bihar will lead from the front,” he said.

In a pointed ideological critique, Gandhi said, “This Constitution is not just a document from 1947 -- it reflects the values of our ancient civilization. The ideology of Savarkar has no place in it; he never had the courage to face the truth.”

He praised Dr B.R. Ambedkar and Mahatma Gandhi for embedding justice, equality, and fraternity in the Constitution. “Ambedkar transformed the pain of Dalits into rights. Great leaders learn from people’s struggles and turn them into law. That fight for truth continues,” he said.

Commenting on the current political climate, Gandhi said fear and silence dominate national discourse. “It’s difficult to speak the truth these days. People know it, but many leaders are afraid to say it aloud,” he remarked.

He also took aim at growing economic inequality, questioning the relevance of the stock market for ordinary Indians. “The US President sneezes, and the stock market crashes. But how many of you invest in it? Less than 1 per cent of Indians. It’s not your tool -- it’s a playground for the rich,” he said.

Rahul Gandhi’s visit is part of the Congress’s intensified campaign in Bihar ahead of the 2025 Assembly elections, where the party is seeking to regain lost ground through a renewed focus on social justice and organizational overhaul.

After a day-long trip, Rahul Gandhi left for Delhi.

Reader Comments

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Priya K.
Finally someone speaking truth to power! The caste census is long overdue in India. Rahul Gandhi's comparison to an x-ray is spot on - how can we fix what we can't see? 👏
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Rahul S.
While I agree with the need for social justice, I wish political leaders would focus more on concrete policy solutions rather than just rhetoric. The caste census is important, but what specific policies will follow?
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Ankit M.
The stock market comment hits hard! 99% of us don't benefit from it yet our economy is judged by those numbers. More leaders should talk about real economic issues affecting common people.
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Sunita R.
As someone from Bihar, I appreciate that he acknowledged our state's history of leading social change. But will Congress actually deliver this time? We've heard promises before...
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Vikram J.
Respectfully disagree with his Savarkar comments. Historical figures should be debated with more nuance. But I do agree about Ambedkar's contributions - that part was well said.
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Meena P.
The change in Bihar Congress leadership representation is significant! More parties should reflect India's actual diversity in their own organizations first. Action speaks louder than words.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Tags:
Rahul Gandhi Caste Census Bihar Politics Congress Party RSS Mohan Bhagwat Social Justice
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