Bhatti Vikramarka Advocates for Rahul Gandhi as Prime Minister to Address Social Issues
In a significant political statement, Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka declared on Monday that India's profound and entrenched societal challenges can only be effectively resolved if Rahul Gandhi assumes the role of Prime Minister. Speaking at a training camp for District Congress Committee (DCC) presidents in Vikarabad, Hyderabad, Vikramarka emphasized the critical need for Congress leadership to tackle deep-seated problems like caste discrimination and social inequality.
Call to Action for Telugu States
Vikramarka issued a direct appeal to the DCC presidents of both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, urging them to intensify their efforts to secure the maximum number of Lok Sabha seats in the upcoming elections. He stressed that electoral success in these Telugu-speaking states is paramount for advancing the Congress party's agenda of social justice and equitable development.
Focus on Caste Issues and Reservations
The training camp centered on the theme "caste issues and reservations – how Congress workers should fight to eliminate caste discrimination." Vikramarka highlighted Rahul Gandhi's personal commitment to this cause, noting that Gandhi frequently visits locations across India where incidents of untouchability or caste-based discrimination are reported.
A poignant example cited was Rahul Gandhi's visit to Hyderabad Central University following the tragic suicide of Rohith Vemula, who allegedly faced caste discrimination. Vikramarka recounted that Gandhi interacted directly with students, helping to shape and guide the subsequent movement. He revealed that party leaders restricted other Congress workers from entering the campus at that time, as Gandhi believed the issue of untouchability should be addressed as a social concern rather than being politicized.
Legislative Efforts and Welfare Promises
Vikramarka informed attendees that legislative initiatives are currently underway in Karnataka and Telangana, proposed in the name of Rohith Vemula, aimed at combating caste discrimination. He reiterated that Rahul Gandhi had pledged before the elections to ensure equitable distribution of resources and wealth through comprehensive welfare schemes. According to Vikramarka, the Congress government has been diligently implementing these development and welfare programs since assuming power.
He also noted the completion of a caste survey in Telangana, a step towards better understanding and addressing social disparities.
Allegations Against BJP and Defense of Congress Legacy
Vikramarka accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of conspiring to politically eliminate the Congress, a party with a storied history of leading India's independence movement and enacting numerous laws to promote economic, social, and political equality. He alleged that the BJP's rhetoric about a "Congress-free India" and discussions about altering the Constitution are attempts to weaken a party that has historically fought to resolve social problems.
"Certain political forces want society to remain socially and economically divided," Vikramarka asserted, highlighting what he sees as a deliberate strategy to perpetuate divisions.
Personal Experience and Historical Context
Acknowledging that caste discrimination remains a stark reality in India, Vikramarka shared that he has personally experienced such prejudice in the past. However, he emphasized his determination to pursue his goals without letting these obstacles hinder progress.
He elaborated on the Congress party's historical role, stating that the All India Congress Committee (AICC) is not merely a political entity but has, for decades, worked tirelessly to raise awareness against social evils like untouchability, child marriage, and restrictions on widow remarriage. Vikramarka pointed out that alongside the freedom struggle, the Congress simultaneously championed social reform movements.
Congress Contributions to Social Reforms
Under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi, extensive campaigns were launched for the upliftment of Harijans (Dalits), promoting temple entry for Dalits and improving sanitation in Dalit localities, thereby fostering nationwide awareness against untouchability. Following Independence, Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and B.R. Ambedkar played pivotal roles in abolishing untouchability through Article 17 of the Constitution.
Vikramarka further detailed that the enactment of the SC/ST Atrocities (Prevention) Act and the implementation of the SC/ST sub-plan were achievements realized under Congress governments. Additionally, land reforms and bank nationalization carried out by Congress administrations provided economic empowerment to socially and economically backward communities, strengthening their capacity to resist social discrimination.
In conclusion, Bhatti Vikramarka's address underscored a firm belief in Rahul Gandhi's leadership as essential for navigating India's complex social landscape and implementing transformative policies aimed at fostering equality and justice.
