During the "Samvidhan Samman Sammelan" held in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, Rahul Gandhi made controversial statements regarding the representation of Dalits, Adivasis, and OBCs in various sectors, including Miss India pageants. He pointed out that despite constituting 90% of the population, these communities are underrepresented. "I examined the Miss India list, and there was not a single Dalit, Adivasi, or even OBC. Whether it's Bollywood or cricket, no one talks about cobblers or plumbers. Even the top anchors in the media are not from the communities that make up 90% of the population," he remarked.
Gandhi emphasized the need for a closer examination of the representation of these communities in institutions, corporate sectors, Bollywood, and Miss India competitions to ensure they receive their rightful share. His remarks have sparked widespread debate across the country.
Kiren Rijiju's Response:
In response, Union Minister for Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju criticized Rahul Gandhi's comments, urging him to understand the facts before speaking. Rijiju reminded Gandhi that India's Prime Minister belongs to the OBC community, the President is the first tribal woman in the role, and the Cabinet has a record number of OBC, Dalit, and Adivasi members. He questioned whether Gandhi wants reservations in competitions like Miss India, movies, and sports, labeling his remarks as "childish." Rijiju also stressed that the government does not select Miss India winners, Olympic athletes, or film actors, urging Gandhi not to divide society with such statements. Rijiju's tweets in English and Hindi have since gone viral on social media.
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