Congress leader Rahul Gandhi recently voiced his concerns over the Miss India pageant’s lack of representation. According to Gandhi, the current list of contestants features no women from Dalit, Adivasi, or OBC (Other Backward Classes) backgrounds. He highlighted this issue during a public address, emphasizing the absence of diversity among the finalists. Gandhi expressed frustration over the media’s focus on entertainment topics like Bollywood, while crucial issues such as this go unnoticed.
Media Focus vs. Societal Issues
Gandhi criticized media coverage for prioritizing Bollywood and other entertainment sectors over pressing societal concerns. He pointed out that while the media often covers dance, music, and cricket, it neglects significant issues affecting farmers and laborers. This skewed focus, according to Gandhi, represents a broader problem where important social issues are overshadowed by trivial content.
The Case for a Caste Census
In his address at the ‘Samvidhan Samman Sammelan’ in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, Gandhi reiterated his call for a nationwide caste census. He argued that 90 percent of the population remains outside the system, despite possessing skills and knowledge. This group, he believes, is not adequately represented or included in decision-making processes.
Caste Census as a Policy Foundation
Gandhi underscored the necessity of a caste census for effective policy-making. He described it as a foundational step for the Congress party’s approach to policy development. By identifying and including all communities, particularly those currently marginalized, Gandhi argues that the census will support more inclusive and equitable policy frameworks.
BJP’s Stance on Caste Census
The Congress leader also addressed the BJP’s position on the caste census. He noted that while the BJP has pledged to conduct such a census and include the OBC category, the Congress demands a comprehensive list that encompasses all communities. For Gandhi, this is not merely a matter of data collection but a critical element in shaping inclusive policies.
Conclusion
Rahul Gandhi’s remarks shed light on ongoing issues of representation and inclusion within major public platforms like Miss India and broader policy-making processes. His call for a nationwide caste census underscores a commitment to addressing these disparities and ensuring that all communities are fairly represented and considered in national policies.
