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Rahul Gandhi says no dalit in Miss India; Kiren Rijiju criticizes his ’immature’ remark


Mangalore Today News Network

New Delhi, August 25, 2024: Union Minister Kiren Rijiju criticized Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s comments on the lack of "Dalit and adivasi" representation in the Miss India pageant, calling them "Bal Buddhi." At an event in Prayagraj, Gandhi argued that India can’t function effectively without the inclusion of the "90 percent" population and questioned the representation of marginalized communities in various fields, including Miss India.



In response, Rijiju pointed out that President Droupadi Murmu, a tribal, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, an OBC, reflect significant representation of marginalized groups. He criticized Gandhi’s suggestion for reservations in competitions like Miss India, sports, and entertainment, calling it a "childish" idea. Rijiju emphasized that the government does not select contestants for beauty pageants, athletes, or actors, and highlighted the existing representation of SC/ST members in the cabinet.

Gandhi also warned that the BJP might accuse him of trying to divide the country by demanding a caste census. Meanwhile, Home Minister Amit Shah mentioned that the census would be conducted at an appropriate time.