New Delhi: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has sparked controversy with his recent comments about the lack of Dalit, tribal, and OBC (Other Backward Classes) representation in the Miss India beauty pageant. Speaking at the Samvidhan Samman Sammelan in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, on Saturday, Gandhi highlighted the absence of these communities in various sectors, including beauty pageants, sports, and media.
Gandhi’s Remarks on Representation
During the event, Rahul Gandhi expressed his concerns about the underrepresentation of Dalits, tribals, and OBCs in Miss India, as well as in other prominent fields like cricket and Bollywood. He argued that India cannot function effectively without the participation of the “90 percent” of the population, referring to the majority of citizens belonging to these communities.
“I have checked the list of Miss India, which did not have any Dalit, adivasi (tribal), or OBC women. Some will talk about cricket or Bollywood, but no one will show the cobbler or plumber. Even top anchors in the media are not from the 90 percent,” Gandhi said in his address to the media.
Gandhi further emphasized the need for transparency in representation across various institutions, corporations, and entertainment industries, calling for a caste census to assess the participation of these communities.
Rijiju’s Sharp Response
Union Minister of Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju, who represents Arunachal Pradesh in Parliament, was quick to respond to Gandhi’s remarks. Rijiju criticized the Congress leader’s comments, suggesting that they were not only baseless but also juvenile.
Now, He wants reservations in Miss India competitions, Films, sports! It is not only issue of “Bal Budhi”, but people who cheer him are – equally responsible too!
बाल बुद्धि मनोरंजन के लिए अच्छी हो सकती है पर अपनी विभाजनकारी चालों में, हमारे पिछड़े समुदायों का मजाक न उड़ाएं। pic.twitter.com/9Vm7ITwMJX— Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) August 25, 2024
“Rahul Gandhi ji, governments don’t select Miss India, governments don’t select athletes for the Olympics, and governments do not choose actors for films,” Rijiju stated. He went on to point out that India’s first tribal President, Droupadi Murmu, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who belongs to the OBC category, exemplify the nation’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Rijiju accused Gandhi of using divisive tactics and making “childish” statements that could harm the unity of the country. “Now, he wants reservations in Miss India competitions, films, sports! It is not only an issue of ‘Bal Budhi’ (juvenile mindset), but people who cheer him are equally responsible too!” Rijiju posted on social media.
The Call for Caste Census
In his interaction with reporters, Rahul Gandhi reiterated his call for a caste census, arguing that it would reveal the true extent of representation and participation of various communities in key sectors. However, he acknowledged that his demand might be perceived as divisive by some, including the BJP.
The debate over caste representation continues to be a sensitive and polarizing issue in India. While the government has assured that the decadal census will be conducted at an appropriate time, the demand for a caste census remains a contentious topic.