Lucknow, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has criticized the Narendra Modi-led government for its failure to provide employment opportunities to Dalits and other backward classes, who make up 90% of India’s population. During a public meeting in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, Gandhi highlighted the issue of job scarcity for marginalized communities and the growing divide in Indian society.
According to Kashmir Media Service, Gandhi raised questions about the employment prospects for backward classes, Dalits, tribals, and minorities in Modi’s vision of ‘Ram Rajya’. He challenged the notion of a just society under the current government, citing the lack of job opportunities for nearly the entire population that belongs to these groups. Gandhi provided a breakdown of the population, noting that backward classes constitute 50%, Dalits 15%, tribals 8%, and minorities another 15%, yet they all face significant barriers to employment under Modi’s administration.
Gandhi also touched upon the broader issues of representation and systemic inequality, pointing out the absence of Dalits and backward classes in media, major industries, and bureaucracy. He voiced concerns over the alarming rates of hunger-related deaths across the country, indicating a deepening crisis under the current regime.
In addition, Gandhi critiqued the recent Ram Mandir inauguration for excluding representatives from backward classes, Dalits, and tribals, including significant figures such as tribal president Droupadi Murmu and Dalit former President Ramnath Kovind. He argued that such omissions reflect the broader exclusion of marginalized communities from the nation’s socio-political narrative.
Advocating for a caste census, Gandhi emphasized the need for accurate data to understand the socioeconomic status of backward communities in India. He criticized the concentration of wealth among a small elite, labeling prominent industrialists as the “Maharajas of the new India” and accusing them of ruling over the majority with the government’s support.
Gandhi’s remarks in Kanpur shed light on the pressing issues of unemployment, social inequality, and the need for greater inclusivity and representation in India’s development narrative.
Washington DC, Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States, Masood Khan, has lauded HOPE Pakistan for its significant humanitarian contributions, particularly in underserved regions of Pakistan. During an e-meeting with the organization’s founder, Dr. Muniba Agboatwalla, and its Director, Ms. Ambreen Siddiqui, the Ambassador expressed admiration for their dedication to improving the lives of thousands in Pakistan.
According to Embassy of Pakistan – Washington D.C, Ambassador Khan highlighted the role of Pakistani philanthropic and humanitarian organizations in the U.S. in enhancing Pakistan’s image through their altruistic endeavors. He emphasized that such efforts not only bolster the bonds of humanity but also serve to strengthen the relationship between the people of Pakistan and the United States.
The meeting was part of an embassy initiative aimed at fostering connections with U.S.-based philanthropic and humanitarian organizations led by Pakistani-Americans, seeking to create synergies for increased effectiveness and impact. HOPE Pakistan, with its extensive network of philanthropists and donors in the United States, has been pivotal in providing assistance in Pakistan through health, education, and emergency relief interventions.
Dr. Agboatwalla briefed Ambassador Khan on HOPE’s collaboration with UNICEF and the Governments of Sindh and Punjab to deliver free humanitarian services, especially in rural areas. She outlined the organization’s focus on combating child malnutrition, having reached 900,000 children, and offering free medical treatment to over 600,000 patients with an emphasis on maternal and child healthcare. Furthermore, HOPE has established three formal and 200 informal schools to address the educational needs of children in underserved areas.
Ms. Siddiqui elaborated on HOPE’s efforts in conjunction with U.S. donors to provide clean drinking water and vocational training, along with relief goods to 150,000 flood affectees and food rations to over 30,000 people during Ramadan. She highlighted that 80% of the schools funded by HOPE cater to girls in various parts of the country, including remote areas.
Ambassador Khan affirmed his full support for HOPE Pakistan’s noble mission, recognizing the substantial contributions the organization has made towards humanitarian aid and development in Pakistan.