New Delhi: A heated exchange erupted in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday between BJP MP Anurag Thakur and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi over the contentious issue of a caste census. The debate intensified when Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav supported Gandhi, criticizing the ruling party.
The dispute began when Anurag Thakur remarked that “those whose caste is not known are talking about a caste census.” Gandhi and Yadav immediately seized on the comment, interpreting it as an insult. Gandhi responded, “You can insult me as much as you want. Anyone who raises the issue of Dalits and tribals in this country has to be abused. I will happily accept it because we will conduct a caste census.” Drawing a parallel to the mythological character Arjuna, Gandhi emphasized his focus on the caste census, saying, “I see the eye of the fish like Arjuna… The caste census is visible.”
Akhilesh Yadav questioned Thakur, asking how caste could be questioned and asserting that it was impossible to ascertain someone’s caste in such a manner. Thakur, in turn, clarified that he had not named anyone specifically and suggested that the records be checked for accuracy.
Rahul Gandhi took the opportunity to criticize the government on several issues, including the penalty imposed by public sector banks for not maintaining a minimum balance in accounts. He claimed that the BJP-led government is exploiting common citizens while favoring industrialists. Gandhi stated, “In the Amritkaal of Narendra Modi, the empty pockets of common Indians are also being cut. The government, which waived Rs 16 lakh crore of industrialists, has recovered Rs 8,500 crore from those who are not able to maintain a minimum balance.” He further accused the government of attempting to weaken the common people, likening the public to Arjuna, capable of overcoming challenges.
In contrast, BJP MP Janardan Singh Sigriwal defended the government’s policies, arguing that provisions have been made in the Union Budget to fund various schemes aimed at making India self-reliant. He challenged Gandhi’s understanding of agricultural issues, questioning his engagement with farmers across different states. Sigriwal also criticized the Congress government in Karnataka, accusing it of failing to fulfill its promises and cautioning Gandhi against misleading the youth regarding the Agniveer recruitment scheme.
The debate in the Lok Sabha reflects the ongoing political tensions and differing perspectives on key issues, with both sides seeking to influence public opinion ahead of upcoming electoral battles.
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