Caste census needed for greater representation of Dalits, downtrodden: Rahul Gandhi

Congress MP and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition (LoP) Rahul Gandhi reiterated his commitment to social justice on Wednesday asserting that he awaits the day when Dalits and so-called weaker sections of society assume leadership roles in every institution of the country.

Speaking at an event commemorating the birth anniversary of freedom fighter and Dalit icon Jaglal Choudhary in Patna, Gandhi renewed his call for a nationwide caste census, arguing that it is essential to ensure equitable representation.

"There is no real participation of Dalits, minorities, and the downtrodden in India's power structures today," he said, stressing the need for a caste-based headcount to identify the exact demographic share of marginalized communities.

"I want to see the day when the owners of the top 10 companies of the country are from Dalit, tribal and backward classes. I am fighting to achieve this goal and will continue to fight," said Rahul.

Taking aim at the BJP and RSS, Gandhi alleged that the ruling dispensation opposes the Indian Constitution because it enshrines the rights of Dalits and backward communities. "The RSS-BJP do not want an equal system. They do not want Dalits to rise because the Constitution guarantees them rights," he remarked.

Gandhi’s speech comes amid a broader debate on caste representation and affirmative action in India. With several Opposition parties including the Congress pushing for a caste census, the issue has emerged as a key poll plank ahead of the 2025 Bihar assembly elections.

The Congress leader, who flew to Patna after casting his vote in the Delhi assembly elections being conducted today, also framed the fight for Dalit empowerment as a personal mission. "I will continue my struggle for the downtrodden until the day we see them leading institutions across the country," he declared, to loud applause from the audience.

His remarks are likely to intensify the ongoing political tussle over caste-based policies, with the BJP yet to formally support a national caste census.