
Rahul Gandhi Defends Reservation Comments: ‘We’ll Extend It Beyond 50 Per Cent’
Facing a wave of criticism over his remarks on reservation, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has clarified his stance, saying his comments were “misinterpreted.” During his visit to the United States, Gandhi assured that he and his party fully support India's reservation system and even plan to extend it beyond 50 per cent if they come into power.
Misunderstanding of Remarks
Speaking at the National Press Club in Washington DC, Gandhi said, “Yesterday, someone misrepresented my statement that I am against reservation. But let me make it clear – I am not against reservation. We will take reservation beyond the limit of 50 per cent.”
Gandhi’s original remarks, made during an interaction at Georgetown University, sparked controversy when he suggested that reservations could be reconsidered once India becomes a more fair and equitable society. He remarked, “India is not a fair place at the moment,” adding that OBCs, Dalits, and Adivasis have been largely excluded from participating in the country’s growth.
Commitment to Social Justice and Caste Census
In his clarification, Gandhi highlighted his commitment to ensuring that reservations remain a key part of Congress’s policy to uplift marginalized communities. He also underscored the need for a caste census, a demand that many see as crucial for ensuring that the benefits of reservation are distributed fairly.
Gandhi emphasized that economic power is concentrated in the hands of a few, adding, “Two businessmen should not run every business in the country,” as he reiterated the INDIA bloc's focus on addressing inequality.
BJP Criticizes Gandhi for “Anti-Reservation” Stance
The BJP was quick to seize on Gandhi’s original comments, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah accusing him of displaying an “anti-reservation face.” Shah claimed Gandhi’s statements revealed Congress’s inclination to abolish the reservation system and accused him of trying to divide the country along lines of religion, region, and language.
“Rahul Gandhi’s statement brings to light Congress’s politics of division. By speaking of abolishing reservation, he has brought the party’s anti-reservation stance into the open,” Shah said during a public address.
Protests in Delhi Over Anti-Sikh Remarks
Adding to the controversy, BJP members and leaders from the Sikh community staged protests outside Gandhi's residence in Delhi, objecting to his alleged “anti-Sikh” comments made during another interaction in Washington DC. The protests reflected growing tensions over Gandhi’s US visit and his remarks on various sensitive issues.
As the controversy continues to brew, Gandhi’s clarification has sought to put to rest any doubts about his stance on reservation. However, the BJP and other critics continue to challenge his positions, keeping the political debate alive.
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