In Patna, Congress luminary Jairam Ramesh staunchly affirmed that reservations have been allocated to specific segments of minority communities in states under its governance, citing “social and economic backwardness” as the basis. Speaking at a press conference held at the Sadaqat Ashram, the BPCC headquarters, Ramesh made it clear that quotas were not granted “based on religion,” particularly highlighting states like Karnataka.
“We strictly adhere to the Constitution, which prohibits the provision of reservations and citizenship based on religion. It’s the BJP that has transgressed the Constitution with the CAA, essentially bestowing citizenship along religious lines. Consequently, the law is facing legal challenges,” remarked the AICC general secretary.
Responding to allegations from BJP officials, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing Congress of diverting quotas meant for OBCs and Dalits to bolster its Muslim voter base, Ramesh retorted that Modi was “peddling falsehoods” to deflect attention from substantive issues, asserting, “the ground is slipping from under his feet. Desperation is palpable as he realizes his tenure as prime minister is coming to an end.”
Contrarily, Ramesh contended, the Congress-led INDIA bloc was poised to secure “a resounding mandate” in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, drawing parallels to 2004 when they rebounded after setbacks in state assembly elections, challenging the perception that the BJP, then led by Atal Bihari Vajpayee, was invincible.
Accusing Modi of “misrepresenting our manifesto,” Ramesh dared him to “clarify the BJP’s stance on Congress’ promises regarding a caste census, debt relief for farmers, and a legally guaranteed MSP.” He alleged that the BJP, from its inception, has opposed the Constitution drafted by Babasaheb Ambedkar, pointing to an article in the RSS mouthpiece advocating a “Manuvadi samvidhan.”
In contrast, Ramesh asserted, the Congress has consistently championed social justice, citing the example of the 69% reservation for marginalized sections in Tamil Nadu, which was constitutionally safeguarded during P V Narasimha Rao’s tenure as Prime Minister, with former party president Sitaram Keshri overseeing the social welfare portfolio.
“Congress is steadfast in its commitment to abolishing the 50% cap on reservations through a constitutional amendment. We urge the PM to clarify whether he supports such a measure,” declared Ramesh. He also criticized Modi’s handling of national security, accusing him of exonerating China regarding reported incursions along the border.
“As we approach the fifth phase of elections, a significant portion of the electorate has already cast their votes. Based on our assessments, we anticipate a significant decline in BJP’s influence in the western and eastern regions, while in the south, it will face a resounding defeat,” asserted Ramesh.