Rahul Gandhi’s ‘10% Control Army’ Remark Ignites Political Storm
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s comments at a Bihar rally have triggered a fierce backlash, with the BJP condemning his statement as “disgraceful” and an “insult” to the Indian Army. Speaking in Purnea during the Lok Sabha elections campaign, Gandhi alleged, “Only 10% of India’s population dominates key institutions like the Army,” hinting at caste disparities in power structures.
What Did Rahul Gandhi Say?
At an INDIA bloc rally, Gandhi reiterated his criticism of systemic inequality:
– Claimed 10% of Indians control institutions like the bureaucracy, judiciary, and Army.
– Implied upper-caste dominance without naming groups.
– Pushed for a nationwide caste census to reveal “real power distribution.”
His remarks align with his focus on OBC representation and social justice.
BJP’s Strong Condemnation
The BJP accused Gandhi of disrespecting the armed forces:
– Rajeev Chandrasekhar (Union Minister): “Shameful—Army is meritocratic and diverse.”
– Sambit Patra (BJP Spokesperson): “Congress divides India by caste, insults soldiers.”
– Rajnath Singh (Defence Minister): “Army is caste-neutral; Congress is frustrated.”
Congress’s Defense
The party clarified Gandhi’s remarks targeted structural bias, not the Army:
– Pawan Khera (Congress Spokesperson): “He advocated equal opportunities for marginalized groups.”
– Allies like RJD’s Tejashwi Yadav backed the inequality debate but avoided Army references.
Election Impact in Bihar
The controversy surfaces as Bihar—a caste-sensitive state—votes:
– BJP: Leverages nationalism, painting Congress as anti-military.
– Opposition: Banks on caste surveys to rally OBC/Dalit voters.
– Analysts warn Gandhi’s framing risks alienating pro-Army voters.
Conclusion
The row underscores the clash between caste politics and nationalist narratives in the 2024 elections. While Gandhi’s base may cheer his inequality pitch, the BJP aims to turn it into a patriotism vs. division showdown.
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