Congress leader Rahul Gandhi addressed a gathering at the Samvidhan Samman Sammelan in Prayagraj and voiced his demand for a nationwide caste census. He pointed out the exclusion of women from Dalit, tribal, and OBC communities in the Miss India pageant list. Gandhi also criticized the media for neglecting issues faced by farmers and laborers and promised to conduct a caste census and remove the cap on reservations when Congress forms the government.
Rahul Gandhi Advocates for Nationwide Caste Census, Highlights Exclusion of Marginalized Women in Miss India Pageant
Background:
The Miss India pageant, an annual event that selects a representative for India in the Miss Universe and Miss World competitions, has historically been criticized for its lack of diversity and representation of women from marginalized communities. This issue came to the forefront recently when Congress leader Rahul Gandhi pointed out the absence of Dalit, tribal, and OBC women in the pageant's list of winners.
Rahul Gandhi's Demand for Caste Census:
On January 18, 2023, Rahul Gandhi addressed a gathering at the Samvidhan Samman Sammelan in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. He voiced his demand for a nationwide caste census, arguing that it was necessary to ensure a fair and equitable society. Gandhi pointed out that Dalit, tribal, and OBC communities, which constitute a significant portion of India's population, are underrepresented in various sectors, including education, employment, and politics.
Exclusion of Marginalized Women in Miss India Pageant:
Gandhi also criticized the Miss India pageant for its lack of inclusivity. He noted that despite the pageant's stated goal of representing the diversity and beauty of India, it had repeatedly failed to include women from Dalit, tribal, and OBC communities. He argued that this exclusion perpetuates the marginalization of these communities and sends a message that they are not considered worthy of representation.
Government's Response:
In response to Gandhi's demand, the government has stated that it is not considering a nationwide caste census. The government has argued that such a census would be divisive and could lead to conflicts based on caste. However, several opposition parties and social justice groups have supported Gandhi's demand, arguing that a caste census is essential to address the structural inequalities faced by marginalized communities.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers:
1. Why is Rahul Gandhi demanding a nationwide caste census?
Gandhi argues that a caste census is necessary to understand the true extent of caste-based discrimination and to ensure that marginalized communities are given adequate representation in education, employment, and politics.
2. What are the arguments against a nationwide caste census?
The government has argued that a caste census would be divisive and could lead to conflicts based on caste. Critics also argue that it could perpetuate the caste system and reinforce stereotypes.
3. Why are Dalit, tribal, and OBC women excluded from the Miss India pageant?
There are various reasons for this exclusion, including discrimination based on caste, class, and colorism. The pageant's organizers have been criticized for their narrow beauty standards that exclude women who do not conform to a particular ideal.
4. Has the Miss India pageant ever featured a winner from a marginalized community?
Yes, in 2017, Manushi Chhillar, who is from a Jat family, won the Miss India title. However, she is the only woman from a marginalized community to have won the pageant since its inception in 1952.
5. What is the significance of Gandhi's criticism of the media?
Gandhi criticized the media for neglecting issues faced by farmers and laborers, who are often from marginalized communities. He argued that the media should play a more active role in highlighting the challenges faced by these groups and holding the government accountable.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a surprise visit to INS Vikrant, India's flagship aircraft carrier, on Diwali eve 2025. This marked his first visit to the high seas to celebrate with the Navy personnel stationed there. His visit included cultural activities, a yoga session, and an inspiring address to the naval staff, further strengthening the bond between the leader and the armed forces.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated Diwali with the Indian Navy on the INS Vikrant aircraft carrier stationed off the coast of Goa and Karwar. The cultural programme organized by the Navy was described by PM Modi as an unforgettable experience. He also praised the dedication and creativity of the naval personnel and highlighted the success of the armed forces in Operation Sindoor with a patriotic song "The Vow of Sindoor". In addition, PM Modi also addressed the country's security forces and lauded their efforts in combating Naxalism.
In a powerful Diwali speech on board INS Vikrant, Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the coordination of India's armed forces in Operation Sindoor, which led to a swift surrender by Pakistan. He also emphasized the importance of self-reliance in strengthening the armed forces and highlighted India's progress in manufacturing essential military equipment domestically. He further announced India's goal to become a top defence exporter, with a significant increase in defence exports in the last decade.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi continued his tradition of celebrating Diwali with India's armed forces by visiting the INS Vikrant off the coast of Goa and Karwar. He praised the Navy personnel for their dedication towards the security of the nation and expressed his gratitude to the families of the brave soldiers. PM Modi also witnessed an impressive display of precision and prowess during an Air Power Demo on INS Vikrant, showcasing the technological excellence of the Indian Navy.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated Diwali 2025 with Indian Navy personnel aboard the indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, highlighting the ship's strength and psychological impact on adversaries. Commissioned in 2022, the carrier is a symbol of India's self-reliance and strategic resolve. PM Modi praised the bravery and dedication of the naval personnel, reinforcing the bond between the armed forces and the government.
The Allahabad High Court has directed the Jailer of Hisar Central Jail in Haryana to provide an explanation on how self-styled Godman Sant Rampal, currently held in the jail, is able to write and distribute books that allegedly target Hindu deities. This comes after a plea was filed by Hindu Front for Justice, calling for a ban on the books and action against Rampal. The petition alleges that the books contain offensive and provocative language and have been distributed through electronic communication platforms, causing disharmony between religious communities.
Following the latest string of scandals involving Prince Andrew, King Charles was photographed attending a Sunday morning service near his Scottish estate. The King wore a solemn expression as he drove to Crathie Kirk, displaying tension amidst a tumultuous time for the royal family. Recently, Prince Andrew announced his resignation from the Duke of York and membership of the Order of the Garter, the oldest chivalric order in the UK.
The nation's political leaders, including Prime Minister Modi, President Murmu, and Union Minister Amit Shah, took to social media to extend their warm wishes to the country on the occasion of Diwali. They highlighted the significance of the festival and urged people to celebrate it responsibly and with mutual love and harmony. EAM Jaishankar also wished everyone a happy and prosperous Diwali.
GB News journalist Nana Akua and royal fans are calling for King Charles to follow in Prince Andrew's footsteps and strip Prince Harry and Meghan Markle of their royal titles. This comes after the Duke of York voluntarily gave up his titles in light of the ongoing scrutiny surrounding his association with Jeffrey Epstein. Nana Akua ridiculed Meghan Markle's business ventures and urged the King to take away her Duchess of Sussex title in order to prevent her from setting foot in the UK again.
During a speech for Deepotsav 2025 celebrations in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath criticized the opposition for denying Lord Ram's existence and obstructing the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple movement. He specifically called out the Congress for submitting an affidavit to the Supreme Court calling Lord Ram a myth and accused the Samajwadi Party of firing bullets at Ram devotees. Adityanath also emphasized the determination and resilience of the movement, which began in 1949 with the resolution "Ram Lalla Hum aayenge, Mandir wahin banayenge" and continues to this day.