Congress Claims BJP and RSS Oppose Reservation, Cites Distorted Rahul Gandhi Remarks

The Congress in Maharashtra has labelled the BJP and RSS as anti-reservation. This statement follows BJP's criticism of Rahul Gandhi's remarks on quota during his US visit. State Congress president Nana Patole accused the BJP of twisting Gandhi's comments on reservation.

Patole claimed that Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis should understand issues before commenting. He alleged that Fadnavis harmed OBC political reservations and deceived Maratha, Dhangar, and tribal communities. According to Patole, the BJP is spreading false propaganda by misinterpreting Gandhi's statements on reservation in jobs and education.

BJP's Stance on Reservation

Patole emphasised that the RSS, BJP's parent organisation, does not support the Constitution created by Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar. He pointed out that RSS leader Mohan Bhagwat has publicly stated that reservations should be abolished. "No matter how much the BJP tries to lie, they cannot hide their anti-reservation view," Patole asserted.

He also mentioned that the BJP government at the Centre has recruited individuals from specific communities directly to secretary posts, which he sees as another way to end reservations. Patole insisted that Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar and his Constitution have been most insulted by the BJP.

Rahul Gandhi's Remarks

During his visit to Georgetown University, Rahul Gandhi said that Congress would consider scrapping reservations when India becomes a fair place, which he believes is not the current situation. The BJP criticised Gandhi for these comments. However, Patole defended Gandhi, stating that his stance is for a caste census and removing the 50% reservation limit to ensure justice for all social groups.

Patole argued that the BJP opposes a caste-based census, revealing their anti-reservation stance. He remarked, "One does not need an astrologer to tell who is anti-reservation."

Political Interests and Misinterpretation

Patole accused the BJP of misinterpreting Gandhi's remarks to further their political interests. He insisted that it is actually the BJP that has always opposed reservation. He also criticised Shinde for betraying Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray's party and stealing its symbol.

The Congress leader defended Gandhi against allegations of defaming India abroad. He pointed out that videos of Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticising India when he was Gujarat's Chief Minister are available online.

Patole concluded by stating that Fadnavis and the BJP have no right to talk about Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar, the Constitution, or reservations due to their actions and stance on these issues.