Rahul Gandhi has swiftly claimed credit for the central government’s decision to include a caste census in the broader population survey, framing it as a personal and political victory. The Congress sees this as a major endorsement of his persistent campaigning and an opportunity to build the perception that he now influences the government’s key policy moves.
Returning to Delhi after rallies in Kanpur and Raebareli, Rahul Gandhi wasted no time in addressing the media. In a pointed press conference, he thanked the PM Narendra Modi government for the move but demanded specifics: a clear timeline, budget allocation, and a design that ensures job reservations for OBCs in both public and private sectors. He also pushed for the removal of the 50% cap on reservations.
Rahul Gandhi’s focus on caste-based politics has been central to his strategy over the past year. He has consistently accused the PM Narendra Modi government of favoring the rich and ignoring backward communities. His image transformation — from being labeled an “entitled neta” to a grassroots politician — has been symbolized by his simple attire and rhetoric of equality.
A Calculated Political Repositioning
Rahul Gandhi’s messaging resonated during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections where he claimed the Constitution was under threat due to backward classes being denied their rights. While this gained some traction nationally, the same didn’t translate well in state elections like Maharashtra and Haryana. With Bihar polls approaching, caste remains a potent issue, though the BJP has somewhat blunted the Congress’s momentum by endorsing the survey.
Yet, Rahul Gandhi remains determined. At his press interaction, he declared that the Prime Minister Narendra Modi now has no choice but to listen to him. Congress leaders have drawn parallels between this pressure tactic and earlier instances, such as the rollback of farm laws, to reinforce his growing political clout.
Congress’s Strategy for a New Narrative
While the BJP argues that it was always committed to the caste census and criticizes the Congress for not implementing it during its rule, the Congress’s main goal is perception. They want voters to see Rahul as someone who can challenge and alter government decisions.
After years of ridicule, Congress is doubling down on projecting Rahul Gandhi as a serious leader who champions backward classes. With caste politics gaining renewed attention, Rahul plans to continue pressing for breaching the reservation cap and securing more jobs for OBCs, hoping this stance revives the Congress’s electoral fortunes.
