Earlier today, BJP workers in Vadodara, Gujarat, held protests against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s recent remarks on the reservation system. The protests follow statements made by Gandhi during his visit to Georgetown University in the United States, where he suggested that the Congress would reconsider the reservation policy when India becomes a “fair” place. This remark has sparked widespread political backlash from the BJP, who argue that it undermines the importance of reservation for backward classes, including Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC).
VIDEO | Gujarat: BJP workers held protests in Vadodara earlier today, over Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s remarks on reservation.
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In Vadodara, BJP workers gathered in large numbers, holding banners and shouting slogans denouncing Gandhi’s comments. The protesters accused Gandhi of being out of touch with the realities of Indian society and claimed that his statements disregard the struggles of historically marginalized communities. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel also participated in a silent march in Ahmedabad, joining the chorus of BJP leaders condemning Gandhi’s remarks. The Chief Minister was seen wearing a black band, symbolizing the BJP’s collective disapproval of the Congress leader’s comments.
The controversy has reignited a broader debate about the future of India’s reservation system, with the BJP positioning itself as the protector of these rights. Several BJP leaders, including Home Minister Amit Shah, have publicly criticized Gandhi for what they perceive as an attempt to roll back decades of affirmative action policies. BJP MP Ramvir Singh Bidhuri, while leading a protest in Delhi, emphasized the Modi government’s commitment to the welfare of SC, ST, and OBC communities. He highlighted the government’s various initiatives aimed at uplifting these groups, contrasting it with what he described as the Congress party’s historical opposition to such measures.
As protests spread across the country, the BJP has made it clear that they will continue to hold Gandhi accountable for his statements. BJP activists in Uttar Pradesh attempted to march towards Gandhi’s residence in Delhi but were stopped by the police due to lack of permission for the protest. This incident at the Ghazipur border has further fueled tensions between the BJP and Congress, with both sides trading barbs over the reservation policy.
Also read: Uttar Pradesh: BJP Slams SP’s Afzal Ansari’s Call to Legalize ‘Ganja’
This political showdown comes at a crucial time, as India prepares for the 2024 general elections. The BJP’s aggressive stance on protecting reservation rights is seen as part of its broader strategy to solidify its support base among backward classes and marginalized communities. Meanwhile, Congress has defended Gandhi’s comments, with party leaders accusing the BJP of distorting his words for political gain.
This issue is likely to remain a key talking point in the lead-up to the elections, as both parties vie for the support of India’s vast and diverse electorate.