Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Friday has called for the establishment of a national law to ensure that a significant portion of the Union Budget is allocated to schemes specifically designed to address the needs of Dalit and Adivasi communities.
Speaking on X (formerly Twitter), Rahul Gandhi criticized the BJP-led NDA government for consistently allocating only a negligible share of the budget to these marginalized groups.
“I met a delegation of researchers, activists, and social workers from Dalit and Adivasi communities who demanded a national law dedicated to securing a budgetary share for these communities. Such a law already exists in Karnataka and Telangana, leading to tangible benefits,” he wrote.
He further recalled that the UPA government had previously introduced the concept of “sub-plans” for Dalits and Adivasis to ensure targeted development. “While the UPA government implemented these sub-plans at the national level, the Modi government has weakened this provision, resulting in minimal budget allocations for Dalit and Adivasi welfare,” he asserted.
Call For Inclusive Governance
Rahul Gandhi emphasized the need for concrete measures to guarantee meaningful representation for Dalits and Adivasis in governance. “Dalits and Adivasis have long fought for their rightful place in society. It’s time to ask: what more can be done to ensure they have a genuine share in power and governance? We need a national law that guarantees a significant budget allocation for schemes tailored to their needs,” he added.
Concerns Over U.S. Tariffs Impacting India’s Economy
In addition to addressing social issues, Rahul Gandhi voiced concerns about the economic repercussions of the United States’ recent decision to impose reciprocal tariffs on India. Speaking in Lok Sabha on Thursday, he warned that the 26% tariff could severely affect critical sectors such as the auto industry, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture.
“Our ally has suddenly imposed a 26% tariff, which will devastate our economy. The auto industry, pharmaceutical sector, and agriculture are all at risk,” he said, urging the government to clarify its response to this economic challenge.
Foreign Policy Critique
Rahul Gandhi also critiqued the foreign policy approach of the current BJP government, drawing a comparison with the principled stance of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. “When asked whether she leaned left or right in foreign policy, Indira Gandhi replied, ‘I am Indian, and I stand straight.’
In contrast, the BJP and RSS have a different approach. When asked to lean left or right, they seem to bow their heads to every foreign power that comes their way,” he alleged, expressing his concerns over India’s shifting stance in global affairs.
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