Bhopal: Rahul Gandhi, a leader of the Congress party, has made a series of promises specifically targeted towards the communities in Madhya Pradesh ahead of the upcoming state elections. If the Congress comes into power, he has assured that forest land rights will be granted to tribespeople and an immediate caste census will be conducted. Speaking at a rally in the Shahdol district, Gandhi reiterated his commitment to ensuring land rights for tribals and also mentioned that the Congress government would increase the price for a bag of tendu (Indian Ebony) leaves from ₹3,000 to ₹4,000.
In Madhya Pradesh, there are 47 seats reserved for Scheduled Tribes. However, tribal communities hold influence over 89 seats out of the total 230 in the assembly. Gandhi emphasized that respect for tribals is at the core of Congress’s approach and highlighted their contrasting stance with that of the BJP, accusing them of neglecting rights.
The state election in Madhya Pradesh is scheduled for November 17th as Congress aims to overthrow the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which has been in power for 18 out of 20 years. During his rally speech, Gandhi reiterated his commitment to conducting a caste census if Congress formed a government by stressing its importance.
Gandhi also expressed his concerns about the underrepresentation of Backward Classes (OBC) in the positions of the Union government. He observed that out of 90 secretaries, only three belong to the OBC category. He urged Prime Minister Modi to give priority to conducting a caste census and emphasized the importance of discussing affairs as well.