The Narendra Modi-led central government has announced the conduct of a caste census. The decision was conveyed by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnav after a cabinet meeting. Congress has been vocal about the caste census, with MP Rahul Gandhi consistently raising the issue. Critics, including opposition parties, are questioning whether this is another instance of 'headline management.'
Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera says, 'The government accused Rahul Gandhi of dividing society into castes, and now it's doing the same? Those accusers may soon hail it as a 'masterstroke.'
Read More: Modi Government to Conduct Caste Census; Major Decision at Cabinet Meeting
'If the Government Must Listen to Rahul Gandhi, Why Oppose Him?'
Pawan Khera argues, 'Why oppose if you are to agree with Rahul Gandhi? It's the third or fourth time the government opposed him and later conceded. They either lack governance skills...'
Khera asserts that caste census is just the first step towards social justice, followed by many more actions that need to be taken.
On allegations that the caste census was Congress's strategy, Pawan Khera refutes, stating, 'It's a commitment to social justice, not a strategic card. The nation knows the genuine from the counterfeit. Are we satisfied with the government's decision? Not entirely. A single step isn't cause for celebration; further actions are needed.'
Congress spokesperson Khera emphasizes that mere data won't achieve social justice. Rahul Gandhi states, 'A census is like an X-ray report; decisions should follow post-evaluation.' Rahul Gandhi will address the press at 7 PM to share his views.
'We Will Keep the Ideologues Dancing to Our Agenda'
RJD chief Lalu Yadav also reacts, noting, 'We socialists, who envisioned reservation, caste census, equality, secularism decades ago, see others follow now. We've given a befitting reply to those labeling us as casteists. Much remains to be done. We'll keep the ideologues on their toes.'
Read More: Jawaharlal Nehru Halted Caste Census; CM Mohan Yadav Criticizes Congress
'A 30-Year Demand, Our Victory'
RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav claims, 'This was our demand for 30 years, a win for us, socialists, and Lalu Yadav. All Bihar parties engaged the PM, but he rebuffed our demand initially, and several ministers disagreed, yet we've asserted our agenda.'
JDU Welcomes Caste Census Decision!
JDU's state spokesperson Abhishek Jha praises the NDA's historic decision for a national caste census. It’s a welcome step. Acknowledging the efforts by our leader Nitish Kumar, long-advocated on various platforms, including legislative proposals and gaining an all-party consensus to reach the central government and PM.
