New Delhi: On Saturday, Congress leader Udit Raj stated that Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha, could become the “second Ambedkar” for the Other Backward Classes (OBCs) if they heed his words from the Bhagidari Nyay Sammelan.

Raj drew a parallel between Rahul Gandhi and Babasaheb Ambedkar, urging the OBCs to support the statements made by the LoP. “The caste census in Telangana serves as an X-ray of society. Rahul Gandhi intends to implement this on a national scale. His perspectives are forward-thinking. If Dalits and backward classes step up, it will enhance our economy. The existing societal inequality will diminish. If the OBCs grasp what Rahul Gandhi articulated, he will indeed become the second Ambedkar for them,” Raj remarked.

“OBCs need to realize that history does not frequently offer chances for advancement. They should endorse and follow Rahul Gandhi’s message from the Talkatora Stadium conference. By doing so, Rahul Gandhi will establish himself as the second Ambedkar for them,” Raj shared on X.

On Friday, Rahul Gandhi admitted that the failure to conduct a caste census during the UPA administration was an error and expressed his commitment to rectify it.

While addressing the ‘Bhagidari Nyay Sammelan’ for OBCs at Talkatora Stadium in Delhi, he acknowledged that he previously struggled to comprehend the issues faced by the Other Backward Classes (OBC) community, unlike those of Dalits, tribals, and women, where he claimed the Congress had made significant contributions.

“I reflect on my performance, identifying areas of success and shortcomings, and I recognize two to three key aspects. The Land Acquisition Bill, MNREGA, Right to Food, Tribal Bill, and the Niyamgiri struggle are all initiatives I executed effectively. Regarding the concerns of tribals, Dalits, and women, I believe I deserve commendable recognition for my efforts,” he stated.

One limitation persisted in the Congress Party and my efforts; I failed to safeguard the OBC community as I ought to have. The reason for this is my lack of a deep understanding of OBC issues at that time. A decade to fifteen years ago, I was aware of the challenges faced by Dalits.

Their struggles are apparent and easily comprehensible, whereas the issues of OBCs tend to be obscured. Had I been aware of your challenges back then, I would have initiated a caste-based census immediately. That was my oversight, which I intend to rectify,” he stated, adding that in a way, it is fortunate that it occurred, because had I conducted a caste-based census at that time, it would not have reflected the current situation.

He further mentioned that Dalits, backward classes, tribals, and minorities constitute 90 percent of the nation’s population, yet they remain marginalized from significant decision-making roles, including the Union Budget.

In the meantime, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge reiterated the party’s call for a nationwide caste-based census and the elimination of the 50 percent cap on reservations. He also criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing him of denying rights to backward communities and misleading the nation.

“I am pleased to see a large gathering of people here who are aware of their rights. Our demand is to conduct a caste-based census in the country and to abolish the 50 percent reservation limit. Narendra Modi is reluctant to provide reservations to those who are educationally disadvantaged, but we stand in solidarity with them,” Kharge asserted. He emphasized that the OBC community’s voice will only resonate when they attain political power.