Rahul Gandhi Criticizes Congress’ Approach to Dalit and Backward Communities in the 1990s, Calls for Power and Wealth Sharing

In a candid address at the ‘Vanchit Samaj: Dasha aur Disha’ program organized by Dalit influencers on Thursday, Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, acknowledged the shortcomings of the Congress party in protecting the interests of Dalits and backward communities during the 1990s. Gandhi admitted that the party failed to meet the expectations of these marginalized groups during that critical period and emphasized the need for their genuine inclusion in positions of power and access to wealth.

Gandhi highlighted the Congress’ historical connection with Dalits, minorities, and backward classes, particularly during the tenure of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. During her leadership, the Congress enjoyed widespread trust and support from these communities. However, he said that in the 1990s, there were “shortcomings” in how the party handled their issues.

He openly admitted that the party lost its grip on its “original base” and stressed that this acknowledgment was essential for the Congress’ renewal. “We understand that there were deficiencies in how we served these communities. The Congress did not protect the interests of Dalits and backward classes as it should have in that era. This fact is not lost on us,” he said.

Addressing the gathering, Gandhi argued that political representation alone is insufficient to solve the problems faced by Dalits and backward classes. He pointed out that true empowerment lies in securing a fair share of power in institutions and wealth.

“Merely getting political representation will not solve the problems. Political representation, as Kanshi Ram fought for, is important, but it has been made irrelevant. Dalits and backward class representatives in Parliament are often silenced and reduced to mere symbols,” Gandhi said.

He further highlighted the importance of institutional representation in education, corporate India, and the judiciary. According to him, without access to such spaces, representation in political bodies alone cannot bring meaningful change. “We need to ensure their participation in decision-making processes across all institutions,” he stressed.

Gandhi emphasized the stark disparity between the population of Dalits and backward classes and their representation in positions of power and wealth. “Backwards makeup 50 percent of the population, but their share of power is just 5 percent. Similarly, Dalits comprise 15 percent of the population, but their share of power is only 1 percent,” he said.

He argued that addressing this inequality is crucial for creating a just and equitable society. “Representation is not enough. The real question is about the share of power and wealth,” he reiterated.

Gandhi expressed confidence that the Congress would regain its traditional base among Dalits, minorities, and backward classes. He stated that once the party succeeds in reconnecting with these communities, the BJP and the RSS would be forced to retreat. “When our original base is back, the BJP and RSS will have no choice but to run away. This will happen soon,” he said optimistically.

The Congress leader concluded by asserting that the solution to the challenges faced by marginalized communities lies in securing their rightful share in power and wealth. He emphasized that no social or economic problem could be resolved without ensuring that Dalits and backward classes are included in the country’s decision-making and wealth-creating systems.

Through his remarks, Gandhi sought to position the Congress as a party that acknowledges its past mistakes and is committed to correcting them by championing the cause of social justice and inclusion. His address served as a call to action for both the party and the nation to address systemic inequalities and create a more inclusive and equitable society.