Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has intensified the India Bloc’s outreach to Bihar’s Extremely Backward Classes (EBCs) ahead of the assembly elections. On Wednesday, the opposition alliance launched the “Ati Pichhda Nyay Sankalp” in Patna, promising stronger legal protections, expanded reservations, and social justice measures for EBCs, SCs, STs, OBCs, and minority communities.
Rahul Gandhi’s Attack on BJP
On Thursday, Rahul Gandhi said that no matter how much the BJP spreads lies and misinformation, the Grand Alliance remains committed to ensuring full rights for Dalit, tribal, minority, backward, and extremely backward communities.
He emphasized that education is the greatest tool for progress, promising sweeping reforms to ensure accessibility for marginalized groups.
Key Promises in the Ati Pichhda Nyay Sankalp
During the event in Patna, attended by Mallikarjun Kharge, Tejashwi Yadav, and other alliance leaders, Rahul Gandhi read out ten major resolutions. Some of the key pledges include:
New Law for EBC Protection: A special act, modeled on the SC/ST Atrocities Act, to prevent atrocities against EBCs.
Increased Reservation in Local Bodies: EBC reservation in panchayats and local bodies to rise from 20% to 30%.
Reservation in Private Education: Implementation of reservations in private colleges and universities, with half of private school reserved seats earmarked for SC/ST/OBC/EBC children.
Government Contracts: Guaranteed contracts up to ₹25 crore for SC, ST, OBC, and EBC entrepreneurs.
Land for Landless Families: All landless families to receive 3 decimals in urban areas and 5 decimals in rural areas.
End to “Not Found Suitable” Clause: Assurance that recruitment discrimination against backward communities will be eliminated.
Why EBC Outreach Matters in Bihar
According to surveys conducted under Nitish Kumar’s government, EBCs make up nearly 36% of Bihar’s population, making them a decisive voter bloc. By pledging targeted benefits and legal safeguards, Rahul Gandhi and the India Bloc aim to consolidate support among these communities before the election announcement.
Conclusion
With the Ati Pichhda Nyay Sankalp, Rahul Gandhi has positioned the Congress and India Bloc as champions of social justice, equality, and empowerment for Bihar’s marginalized communities. The promises, if implemented, could reshape the state’s education, employment, and land rights framework, making this one of the most ambitious outreach programs ahead of the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections.
