Kolkata: As political dynamics undergo a seismic shift in Bihar, Congress MP Rahul Gandhi reiterated the party's push for a caste-based census nationwide. Following Bihar's Mahagathbandhan government's implementation of a caste-based census, a first in the country, Rahul pledged to extend a similar exercise nationwide if the Congress returns to power at the Centre this year.
The move towards a caste-based census was initially advocated by Nitish Kumar before his fallout with the grand alliance in the state and the Opposition bloc, INDIA. Confirming his split with the Mahagathbandhan and INDIA, Nitish resigned as CM and submitted his resignation along with BJP MLAs' letters of support to the Governor. He is set to take oath as CM for the ninth time, accompanied by two BJP deputy CMs at 5 pm on Sunday.
Commending Telangana CM Revanth Reddy for initiating a caste census in the state, Rahul Gandhi described it as the "first step towards justice." In a post on X, he emphasized that a caste census is essential to comprehend the social and economic well-being of any society, enabling proper planning. He asserted that a caste census is crucial for ensuring the equitable participation of every section of society in the nation's prosperity.
Following the release of Bihar's caste-based census findings, Deputy CM and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav highlighted that 64% belong to backward categories, and 20% are SC/STs, revealing that roughly 85% come from marginalized sections. Nitish Kumar and RJD's Lalu Prasad Yadav hailed the publication of the historic caste-based census report, while the BJP and other NDA parties criticized it, labeling the exercise and report as mere eyewash.
Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma to Disclose Details of Rahul Gandhi's Alleged "Body Double"
Tragic Collision Claims Six Lives in Tamil Nadu: Car and Truck Collision
Nitish Kumar's Resignation Sparks Congress Critique: Labeled as a "Chameleon"