Rahul Gandhi calls for Caste Census, says Ambedkar’s dream still unfulfilled
New Delhi: Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, has stressed that Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s struggle for equality remains unfinished, pointing to the historic Mahad Satyagraha of 1927 as a reminder of the ongoing fight against caste-based discrimination.
Speaking during a discussion with Professor Sukhadeo Thorat, a member of Telangana’s caste survey panel, Gandhi reiterated the demand for a nationwide caste census, arguing that it is essential to expose the deep-rooted social inequalities that still exist.
Taking to social media platform X, he wrote, “The fight for share that began 98 years ago continues. On 20 March 1927, Babasaheb Ambedkar directly challenged caste discrimination through the Mahad Satyagraha. This was not just about the right to water but about equality and respect.”
The Mahad Satyagraha, led by Ambedkar, was a landmark movement where Dalits asserted their right to access public water sources, challenging the caste-based restrictions imposed by the upper castes. Gandhi linked the event to contemporary issues, stating that while progress has been made, caste-based discrimination continues to deny Dalits their rightful share in governance, education, and economic resources.
Criticizing those who oppose the caste census, Gandhi accused them of attempting to hide the truth about systemic discrimination. He maintained that the only way to achieve Ambedkar’s vision of social justice is by acknowledging and addressing the existing disparities.
“Babasaheb’s dream is still incomplete. His fight is not just about the past, it is also about today, and we will fight it with all our might,” he asserted.
Gandhi’s remarks come amid an ongoing political debate over the need for a caste census, with his party advocating for data-driven policymaking to ensure social justice, while opponents argue against its implementation.
Let the Truth be known. If you read VB and like VB, please be a VB Supporter and Help us deliver the Truth to one and all.
KSCA expresses disappointment over missing IPL playoffs, says it was ready to host matches in B’luru
Bengaluru: The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) has issued a clarification stating that it was fully prepared to host the IPL playoffs and final matches in Bengaluru but the fixtures were allotted to other venues.
In a media note, KSCA said it was disappointed with the decision. The association stated that its president, former India cricketer Venkatesh Prasad, had been in touch with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and had formally conveyed the association’s readiness and interest in hosting the matches at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.
KSCA said the IPL matches held in Bengaluru this season were appreciated for smooth conduct, crowd management and overall experience for spectators. It said this reflected its ability to handle high-profile matches.
The association also stated that it had sent a detailed communication to the BCCI explaining its preparedness and the operational arrangements followed during the current IPL season. According to KSCA, these systems have been in place since the start of the Indian Premier League in 2008 and were followed consistently, including during previous playoff matches hosted in Bengaluru.
The clarification added that the communication sent to the BCCI was only meant to provide factual and operational details and to bring clarity on logistical and stakeholder-related requirements involved in hosting such matches.
KSCA said that although it had shown willingness and preparedness, the BCCI has decided to allocate the playoff matches to other venues. It added that the reasons for this decision have not been formally shared with the association, but it respects the authority of the board in taking such decisions.
The association further said it remains ready to host matches of national and international importance and will continue to cooperate with the BCCI, franchises, government authorities and other stakeholders for conducting cricket events.
The statement was issued by KSCA official spokesperson Vinay Mruthyunjaya, who also thanked the media and cricket fans for their continued support.
