Congress OBC Wing Intensifies Demand for Nationwide Caste Census
In a significant development, the Congress OBC wing has escalated its call for a comprehensive nationwide caste census, while simultaneously issuing a stern warning of a countrywide agitation if OBC women are excluded from the proposed women's reservation framework. The announcement was made during a press conference held in Lucknow on Thursday, where the party's OBC national president, Anil Jaihind, articulated these demands with urgency.
Scientific Caste Census Essential for Equitable Policy
Anil Jaihind emphasized that a "scientific caste census" is not merely a headcount but a crucial tool for ensuring equitable policymaking. He urged the central government to adopt a model similar to Telangana, which involves collecting detailed data on the socio-economic, educational, and political status of various communities. This approach, he argued, would provide a more accurate assessment of the conditions faced by backward communities, enabling targeted interventions and fair resource allocation.
Concerns Over Women's Reservation Bill
Jaihind raised serious concerns regarding the proposed women's reservation bill, alleging that it fails to provide adequate representation for OBC women. He warned that this omission could lead to a skewed representation in Parliament, with most reserved seats potentially going to the general category. This, he stated, would undermine the fundamental principle of social justice and perpetuate existing inequalities. The absence of a distinct OBC category in census-related documentation was cited as evidence of a lack of intent to genuinely assess the community's real condition.
Upcoming Event and Historical Legacy
In related news, the Congress party has announced a major event scheduled for April 11 in Lucknow to commemorate the 200th birth anniversary of social reformer Jyotiba Phule. The programme, to be held at Indira Gandhi Pratishthan, is expected to attract participation from senior leaders, including Bhupesh Baghel and Ajay Rai. This event underscores the party's commitment to honoring historical figures who championed the rights of marginalized communities.
Threat of Nationwide Movement
Invoking the legacy of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, who played a key role in strengthening OBC reservation in panchayats, Jaihind declared that the Congress party is prepared to launch a nationwide movement if their demands are not addressed. This movement would be spearheaded under the leadership of Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi, signaling a coordinated effort to push for greater representation and justice for backward communities across India.
The Congress OBC wing's stance highlights growing tensions over caste-based policies and representation, setting the stage for potential political confrontations in the coming months. As the debate intensifies, the call for a caste census and inclusive reservation policies remains a central issue in the national discourse.
