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.
Now, He wants reservations in Miss India competitions, Films, sports! It is not only issue of "Bal Budhi", but people who cheer him are - equally responsible too!
— Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) August 25, 2024
बाल बुद्धि मनोरंजन के लिए अच्छी हो सकती है पर अपनी विभाजनकारी चालों में, हमारे पिछड़े समुदायों का मजाक न उड़ाएं। pic.twitter.com/9Vm7ITwMJX
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.