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The Indian Parliament witnessed a heated debate on Tuesday, fueled by a contentious question regarding the caste of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. The row erupted after several BJP leaders, including Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju and Union Minister Giriraj Singh, demanded to know Gandhi's caste, arguing that those seeking a caste census should be transparent about their own identities. Rijiju accused the Congress of using caste as a political tool to divide the nation, highlighting instances of Gandhi inquiring about the caste of individuals he encountered during the Bharat Jodo Yatra and in media interactions.
The BJP's demand for Gandhi's caste stemmed from the Congress's push for a nationwide caste census. The Congress party has long advocated for a caste-based enumeration, arguing that it is crucial to understand and address social inequalities within India's diverse population. However, the BJP has been critical of this proposal, suggesting it would exacerbate caste tensions and further divide the country.
Gandhi, though visibly offended by the repeated inquiries about his caste, responded with composure, stating that he found the remarks insulting but wouldn't let them affect him. Akhilesh Yadav, leader of the Samajwadi Party, strongly objected to the BJP's behavior, questioning the propriety of asking someone's caste on the floor of the House. The heated exchanges in Parliament underscored the sensitive nature of caste politics in India, a subject that has long been a source of societal divisions and political maneuvering.
Source: Caste row: Why is it wrong to ask Rahul Gandhi's caste? ask BJP leaders