The Aryavarth Express
Agency(Maharashtra): During a public engagement in Dondaicha village, Dhule district, Maharashtra, on Wednesday, Rahul Gandhi, a prominent figure from the Congress party, brought to light the pressing issues of unemployment, inflation, and “bhagidari” (partnership) that India is currently grappling with. He accused the government of shifting public focus away from these critical problems.
In the midst of his Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, Gandhi articulated that executing a caste census would mark a monumental and transformative move. He reiterated the Congress party’s commitment, under his leadership, to undertake such a census should they ascend to power nationally.
Gandhi outlined a vision for a comprehensive economic and demographic survey aimed at delineating the socioeconomic positions of various segments of society, including the Dalits, economically disadvantaged individuals from the general category, minorities, and tribal communities. He pointed out the absence of representation for these groups across various sectors including media, the Election Commission, bureaucracy, and both private healthcare and educational institutions.
Highlighting the government’s fiscal policies, Gandhi criticized the waiver of Rs 16 lakh crore worth of loans for the affluent, questioning why similar relief is not extended to the farming community.
The Congress leader also shed light on the wealth disparity within the country, claiming that the collective wealth of 22 individuals equals that of 70 crore citizens. He emphasized the skewed distribution of wealth, where half of the population holds merely three percent of the nation’s wealth, contrasted with a minuscule group holding the majority.
Further critiquing the government’s initiatives, Gandhi targeted the Agnipath scheme—a short-term military recruitment plan—underlining the lack of provisions for martyr status or pensions for Agniveers. He accused the government of redirecting funds intended for military pensions and training towards the defense sectors of private corporations.
Gandhi’s nationwide yatra, which entered Maharashtra on Tuesday, is set to conclude in Mumbai on March 17, marking the end of its journey.