Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar on Sunday criticized Rahul Gandhi for his remarks about reservations, accusing the Congress leader of having an “anti-constitutional mindset.” This came after Gandhi, during a visit to the US, stated that India could consider ending the reservation system only when it becomes a fair place with equal opportunities for all.
Speaking at an event on the “Enhancement of Democratic Values and Ethics” in Mumbai, Dhankar said, “A person holding a constitutional post talking about ending reservations on foreign soil reflects the same old anti-constitutional mindset. The baton of prejudice against reservations has been passed down.”
In response, Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera questioned whether the Vice President supports Rahul Gandhi’s call to remove the 50% cap on reservations. “Rahul Gandhi has demanded the removal of the 50% limit on reservations for SCs, STs, and OBCs. Do you support this demand, Mr. Vice President?” Khera asked on X (formerly Twitter).
Dhankar further emphasized that reservations are not against meritocracy but are fundamental to the Constitution, describing them as “affirmative action” that uplifts underprivileged communities without depriving others of opportunities.
Gandhi’s remarks sparked backlash from the ruling BJP, with leaders like Home Minister Amit Shah and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh accusing him of aligning with forces “conspiring to divide India.” They alleged that his comments reflected the Congress party’s “anti-reservation mindset.”
Issuing a clarification, Rahul Gandhi reaffirmed his support for reservations, stating that if the Congress comes to power, they would increase reservations beyond the 50% limit. “I am not against reservations. We will extend them beyond the current ceiling of 50%,” Gandhi said at the National Press Club in the US.