During an election rally in Chhattisgarh’s Bhanupratappur assembly constituency, Rahul Gandhi, a prominent Congress leader, made a series of notable commitments. He pledged free education in government schools and colleges, and a yearly grant of Rs 4,000 for tendu leaf collectors if the Congress continues to hold power in the state. Gandhi also raised the question of why Prime Minister Narendra Modi mentions OBC (other backward class) in his speeches but seems apprehensive about conducting a caste census. He assured that if the Congress gains power at the national level, a caste census would be conducted in the country. Bhanupratappur is one of the 20 constituencies set to vote on November 7 in the first phase of the Chhattisgarh elections, with the second phase scheduled for November 17.

Gandhi announced a major initiative called “KG to PG,” promising free education from kindergarten to post-graduation in government institutions for students if the Congress continues to govern the state. He also committed to providing tendu leaf collectors with Rs 4,000 annually through the Rajiv Gandhi Protsahan Yojana. This announcement holds particular significance for the Bastar region, which is tribal-dominated and includes the Bhanupratappur constituency.

Advocating for a caste census, Gandhi questioned why Prime Minister Narendra Modi frequently mentions OBC but appears reluctant to conduct such a census. He further stated that if the Congress secures power at the national level, they would conduct a caste census across the country, in line with their commitment to Chhattisgarh.

Gandhi criticized the BJP-led Centre, asserting that it primarily serves the interests of a select few industrialists. In contrast, he emphasized that the Congress works for the welfare of farmers, Dalits, laborers, and Adivasis. He also objected to the use of “vanvasi” instead of “Adivasi” when referring to tribals, seeing it as an affront to their culture, history, and language.

During his speech, Gandhi briefly paused to assist someone who had fainted in the audience, demonstrating his concern for their well-being.

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