Jaipur, May 1 (IANS) Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has called on the Central government to announce a clear timeline for the caste census, while urging transparency and decisive action in the Pahalgam terror attack, asserting that the opposition has stood behind the Union government in both cases.
“The government must immediately allocate adequate funding and specify the timeline when it will begin, how long it will take, and what steps will follow?” he demanded while addressing the media.
Supporting both the caste census initiative and the government’s handling of the recent Pahalgam terror attack, Gehlot said the time for statements and debates is over, especially since the opposition has extended full support to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the issue of national security.
Gehlot questioned the government’s delay in conducting the long-pending national caste census, originally scheduled for 2021.
“Now the government must move forward. The public deserves to know the government’s intentions. Why is the census being delayed repeatedly?” he asked.
Gehlot cited the Union Budget, which allocated Rs 600 crore for the census, calling it insufficient.
Former Chief Minister also credited the Leader of Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi’s, consistent advocacy for caste census as a major factor behind the government’s recent decision.
“His confidence on this issue built immense pressure. Better late than never. Rahul is also raising the issue of lifting the 50 per cent cap on reservations, and that should now be addressed,” he said.
Questioning the BJP’s change in stance, Gehlot remarked, “When Congress raised the caste census issue, the RSS and BJP accused us of dividing society. Today, the same parties are taking steps in that direction. Whether it’s done willingly or under pressure, the move is significant.”
Gehlot praised the Telangana government’s scientific approach to caste enumeration, urging the Centre to study and adopt the Telangana model.
“Justice should be based on data. Telangana followed a step-by-step method and has become a model worth replicating,” he added.
Highlighting the importance of social justice and national unity, Gehlot said: “Even after 75 years, if SCs, STs, and OBCs have not received their due, we must act. A united society – across caste and religion – is our real strength, especially when dealing with hostile neighbours.”
On the Pahalgam terrorist attack, Gehlot emphasised that the opposition has given a free hand to PM Modi and the NDA government.
“Rahul Gandhi has made it clear that the opposition stands with the government on national security. This is not a matter for public debate. Such decisions must be taken with caution and consensus,” Gehlot stated.
He noted that, in both the Pahalgam terror response and the caste census decision, the opposition has stood by the government, offering constructive support instead of political criticism.
–IANS
arc/dan
Disclaimer
The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. The information is provided by TodayIndia.news and while we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.
In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this website.
Through this website you are able to link to other websites which are not under the control of TodayIndia.news We have no control over the nature, content and availability of those sites. The inclusion of any links does not necessarily imply a recommendation or endorse the views expressed within them.
Every effort is made to keep the website up and running smoothly. However, TodayIndia.news takes no responsibility for, and will not be liable for, the website being temporarily unavailable due to technical issues beyond our control.
For any legal details or query please visit original source link given with news or click on Go to Source.
Our translation service aims to offer the most accurate translation possible and we rarely experience any issues with news post. However, as the translation is carried out by third part tool there is a possibility for error to cause the occasional inaccuracy. We therefore require you to accept this disclaimer before confirming any translation news with us.
If you are not willing to accept this disclaimer then we recommend reading news post in its original language.
