Telangana’s caste census a national model for equality: Rahul Gandhi

Hyderabad: Rahul Gandhi has praised Telangana’s upcoming caste census, calling it a model initiative that could pave the way for equitable wealth distribution and economic empowerment across India. Speaking at a caste conference in Hyderabad, the Congress leader underscored the need to eradicate caste discrimination as a critical step toward national economic strength.

Caste census: A pathway to economic equality

At a conference organized by TPCC President Mahesh Kumar Goud at the Gandhi Ideology Center in Boinpally, Hyderabad, Gandhi highlighted caste discrimination as a hindrance to India’s economic growth. He emphasized that economic justice can only be achieved if marginalized communities receive adequate representation through such a census. “This isn’t just a caste census,” he stated, “it’s a framework for guiding our future.”

Caste system’s influence on all sectors

Criticizing Prime Minister Modi for not acknowledging systemic caste issues, Gandhi said that caste discrimination pervades India’s judicial, economic, and political sectors, stifling progress. He questioned how a nation can thrive when entrenched inequalities limit opportunities for vast segments of the population.

Promise for a nationwide caste census

Gandhi assured that if Congress comes to power, they will conduct a caste census at the national level. He argued that knowing the demographic distribution of Dalits, OBCs, Adivasis, and women is essential for implementing fair policies and bridging generational disparities.

Responding to criticism

Addressing accusations that the caste census is divisive, Gandhi defended the initiative, saying, “Telling the truth about our country does not divide us; it makes us stronger.” He described the census as a means to bring transparency to wealth distribution and accountability across different communities.

Support from Telangana leaders and public associations

The event was attended by TPCC President Mahesh Kumar Goud, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, Deputy CM Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka, ministers, and representatives of various public and caste associations. They echoed Gandhi’s call for a census that would highlight and address long-standing inequalities.