New Delhi: Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, has strongly criticized the Narendra Modi-led government for the exclusion of marginalized communities from the budget-making process, exposing the systemic imbalance in policy decisions.

According to a statement by Kashmir Media Service, addressing a rally in Delhi, Rahul Gandhi pointed out the glaring absence of Dalits, tribals, backward classes, and minorities in the key financial decision-making bodies. “Tomorrow, you will see the finance minister with a briefcase. A photo will come. But you will not see a single Dalit, tribal, backward class person, or a minority in that photo,” he remarked, underscoring the deep-rooted exclusion in India’s economic governance.

Highlighting the stark disparity, he revealed that out of 90 officers responsible for formulating the national budget, only three belong to the Other Backward Classes (OBCs). “Your population is 50%, yet when Rs 100 is allocated in the budget, your representatives will only have a say in Rs 5,” he said, criticizing the disproportionate influence wielded by elite bureaucrats.

His remarks come a day after he acknowledged Congress’ historical shortcomings in safeguarding the interests of Dalits and backward classes post-1990. Speaking at the ‘Vanchit Samaj: Dasha aur Disha’ event, he admitted, “Had Congress retained the confidence of Dalits and backward classes, the RSS would have never been able to come to power.”

The statement has reignited discussions on representation and inclusivity in India’s governance, exposing the Modi government’s failure to ensure equitable participation in crucial decision-making processes.