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Rahul Gandhi Clarifies Remarks on Reservation Amid Criticism: "We Will Extend Reservation Beyond 50%”

  • 11 Sep 2024 12:17 PM
  • Rahul Gandhi, Congress Party, Reservation Policy, BJP Criticism

Rahul Gandhi recently clarified his controversial remarks about reservation policies, stating that the Congress party supports extending reservations beyond the current 50% limit. During an interview at the National Press Club in the US, Gandhi emphasized that his previous comments, made at Georgetown University, were misinterpreted. He reiterated that he is not opposed to reservation but believes it should continue until India achieves a fair and equitable society. His clarification comes amid intense criticism and accusations from the BJP, which argues that his statements reflect an anti-reservation stance and disrupt national unity.

The controversy erupted after Gandhi discussed India's reservation system and its impact on marginalized communities, including OBCs, Dalits, and Adivasis. He highlighted the lack of representation and participation of these groups in major Indian institutions and businesses, suggesting that a caste census is essential to understanding their socio-economic conditions. His remarks sparked a backlash from BJP leaders, including Amit Shah, who accused Gandhi of undermining the reservation system and engaging in divisive politics. This criticism reflects the broader tensions in Indian politics over reservation and caste issues.

Gandhi's statements have reignited debates on reservation policies and their effectiveness in addressing social inequalities. The BJP's criticism suggests a growing rift between the parties on how to manage reservation and caste-based representation in India. As the Congress party prepares to address these issues further, Gandhi's comments continue to shape the political discourse, highlighting the ongoing challenges in balancing social justice with political strategy.