Rahul Gandhi calls India's merit system 'unfair', says it's an 'upper caste narrative'

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has criticised India's merit system, calling it "completely flawed" in an interview with Professor Sukhadeo Thorat. Highlighting the struggles of Dalits, OBCs, and tribals in accessing education and governance, he questioned the fairness of the current system.

Rahul Gandhi expressed his views on the issue, saying, "There is a completely flawed concept of merit where I confuse my social position with my capability. For anybody to say that our education system or our bureaucratic entry systems are fair to Dalits, OBCs (Other Backward Castes), and tribals - that's just complete fallacy."



Professor Thorat, an educationist, economist, and expert on Dalit issues, was part of the study committee on caste surveys in Telangana. He and Rahul Gandhi discussed how the narrative of merit is dominated by the upper caste perspective. The Congress leader said, "The entire narrative is an upper caste narrative. This notion of merit is, actually, itself an unfair idea."

Need for a caste census

Rahul Gandhi also stressed the importance of a caste census to reveal the truth about inequality and discrimination. Referring to Dr BR Ambedkar’s historic Mahad Satyagraha, he posted on X (formerly Twitter): "The fight for share that began 98 years ago continues. On 20 March 1927, Babasaheb Ambedkar directly challenged caste discrimination through the Mahad Satyagraha. This was not just a fight for the water right, but also for equality and respect."

The Congress leader believes that a caste census is essential to bring inequality to light. He criticised those opposing the census, stating, "The caste census is a crucial step toward bringing 'inequality to light, while its opponents seek to suppress this truth'."

Rahul Gandhi also emphasised that Dr Ambedkar’s fight against caste discrimination is not just a part of history but a struggle that continues today. He said, "Babasaheb’s dream remains unfulfilled. His fight is not just of the past but also of the present, and we will carry it forward with full strength."

His conversation with Professor Thorat highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by marginalised communities in India. The discussion aimed to shed light on the relevance of the caste census and the need to ensure equality in education, governance, and resources.