Rahul Gandhi, addressing the ‘Shiksha Nyay Samvad’ program, began by greeting the audience warmly and expressing his intent to have an open dialogue. He explained how despite administrative attempts to block his entry, including barricades, he managed to reach the venue through alternative routes to directly connect with the people.
Highlighting Injustices Faced by Marginalized Communities
Gandhi emphasized the continuous oppression faced by Dalits, backward classes, extremely backward classes, and tribal communities in India. He highlighted how these groups are systematically suppressed, denied equal access to education, and subjected to unfair practices like exam paper leaks aimed at stalling their careers.
He outlined three core demands his party stands for
Proper caste-based census similar to the one conducted in Telangana.Implementation of reservation policies in private colleges and universities as mandated by Indian law, which he claims neither the central government led by Narendra Modi nor the Bihar government has enforced. Effective utilization of funds allocated under the SC-ST Sub-Plan for the benefit of these communities.
Rahul Gandhi stressed the importance of unity among these 90% marginalized populations, warning that they are being misled and distracted to keep them away from their rightful opportunities.
Addressing Systemic Exclusion
He pointed out the stark absence of representation of these communities in senior bureaucracy, corporate India, judiciary, education, and medical systems. According to him, while these marginalized groups constitute the majority of manual laborers and beneficiaries of welfare schemes like MNREGA, the economic benefits and power remain concentrated in the hands of only 5-10% of the population.
Rahul Gandhi reiterated his commitment to continue fighting for these demands until reservation in private institutions is realized and funds meant for marginalized communities are properly disbursed.
Challenge to the Government
The Congress leader accused the current government of serving the interests of big industrialists like Adani and Ambani rather than the marginalized majority. He applauded the people for their support, saying the government tried but failed to stop him from reaching them, symbolizing the strength behind his movement.
He recalled how pressure from people forced the government to announce a caste census, though he described their actions as reluctant and contradictory to democratic principles.
Promise of Change
Rahul Gandhi assured that once his party comes to power at the central or Bihar state level, they will overhaul the existing system and work to uplift the marginalized sections with meaningful reforms.
He ended his speech by thanking the audience and expressing hope for a better future.
Interaction with Students: Voices from Hostels
During the event, Rahul Gandhi invited students to speak. A student named Pradeep shared the harsh conditions in their hostels, describing mental harassment by administration and poor living facilities. He expressed hope from Rahul Gandhi as a leader and potential future Prime Minister to bring positive changes.
Pradeep highlighted issues such as decreasing educational budgets, lack of effective implementation of Dalit welfare schemes, and the challenges posed by the new education policy which he described as discriminatory against marginalized groups, especially given the digital divide.
He criticized privatization trends in education and healthcare, which he believes exclude SC, ST, and OBC communities from opportunities. He also mentioned the underrepresentation of these groups in media and called for more accessible journalism education.
Rahul Gandhi’s Empathy and Encouragement
Rahul Gandhi inquired about Pradeep’s family and studies, showing empathy towards his struggles. Pradeep revealed his modest family background and how the hostel is crucial for continuing his education. He also requested the establishment of postgraduate hostels specifically for Dalit students to enable higher studies and better participation in nation-building.
Rahul Gandhi acknowledged Pradeep’s concerns and asked him to convey his regards to his family, signaling personal connection and support.
