KKN Gurugram Desk | Amid growing political debates surrounding the Caste Census in India, BJP MP Manoj Tiwari has launched a sharp attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, calling him a “Hindu and Sanatan Dharma opponent”. Speaking at an event in Delhi’s Burari, Tiwari said that if caste census proceeds, then Rahul Gandhi must also reveal his caste identity, which he claims will expose “hidden truths” to the public.

“Let the Caste Census Happen, Let Rahul Gandhi’s Caste Be Known”

At a local function organized by a social service institute, Manoj Tiwari said:

“The caste census must take place. Let the truth come out. The entire country and the world will then know what caste Rahul Gandhi belongs to.”

The BJP MP insisted that Rahul Gandhi and the Congress party are only using the issue of caste census for political gain and alleged that Gandhi avoids identifying with any caste because of his party’s double standards on social justice.

“Rahul Gandhi Is Anti-Sanatan, Anti-Hindu” – Manoj Tiwari

In a pointed remark, Tiwari accused Gandhi of being against Sanatan Dharma and the broader Hindu community. Speaking to news agency IANS, he said:

“Rahul Gandhi is anti-Hindu and anti-Sanatan. His faith in Hinduism is only pretentious. He doesn’t believe in our traditions. His past statements prove that.”

Tiwari further alleged that Gandhi’s statements are part of a larger pattern of disrespecting Hindu values and demeaning Indian religious traditions, especially when he is speaking abroad.

Controversy Over ‘Imaginary Ram’ Comment

Tiwari referenced Rahul Gandhi’s previous remarks at Brown University in the United States, where he allegedly called Lord Ram a fictional character. Responding to this, Tiwari said:

“His comment about Lord Ram being imaginary reflects his deep-rooted disdain for Hindu beliefs. Let him keep his anti-Hindu thinking; we will ensure that Ramcharitmanas reaches every household.”

He added that BJP leaders and supporters are conducting Shiv Mahapuran Katha programs across Delhi to spread the values of Hinduism, particularly in areas like Burari.

Caste Census Debate Heats Up

Tiwari’s comments come shortly after the central government confirmed its intent to carry out a caste-based census across the country. While the move has been welcomed by many sections of society, opposition parties like Congress, Samajwadi Party, and others in the INDIA alliance have claimed credit for pressuring the government to take this step.

BJP leaders, however, are pushing back against this narrative. They argue:

• Congress ruled India for decades but never implemented a caste census.

• The party is now playing politics on the issue from the opposition bench.

• Social justice was never their priority during governance, only a tool during elections.

Caste Politics: Old Playbook or New Mandate?

The debate on caste census has become a central issue in national politics, especially in states like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu, where caste identities play a critical role in electoral outcomes.

Tiwari’s targeting of Rahul Gandhi over caste identity is not new. BJP leaders have often criticized Gandhi for:

• Avoiding clarity on his caste and religious affiliation

• Allegedly using minority appeasement for political gains

• Disrespecting religious texts and sentiments

However, Gandhi and his supporters maintain that such attacks are politically motivated distractions, meant to divert attention from real issues like unemployment, inflation, and social inequality.

Shiv Mahapuran Event in Burari

Speaking at the Shiv Mahapuran Katha organized in Burari, Manoj Tiwari invited the public to join the religious event from May 21 to May 27.

“Our goal is to carry the spiritual message of Lord Shiva and Lord Ram to every home. This isn’t just a religious mission, but a cultural revolution.”

He used the platform to reinforce his political message, linking cultural values with national identity and criticizing the opposition for disconnecting with traditional roots.

Reactions from Political Circles and Public

Manoj Tiwari’s statements have triggered mixed reactions:

Supporters Say:

• “Tiwari is right to question Rahul’s religious commitment.”

• “Why does Rahul Gandhi never clearly talk about his caste or Hindu identity?”

• “It’s time for transparency from those demanding data.”

Critics Argue:

• “Tiwari is playing divisive politics in the name of religion and caste.”

• “Rahul Gandhi’s personal beliefs shouldn’t be a matter of public scrutiny.”

• “BJP is nervous about the rising demand for caste-based equality.”

Caste Census in India: The Bigger Picture

The demand for a caste-based census isn’t new. Supporters argue it is vital for equitable policy formulation, while critics fear it could further entrench caste divisions.

Key Arguments in Favor:

• Helps in accurate data collection for backward and marginalized communities

• Aids in effective reservation planning and welfare targeting

• Creates a transparent basis for political representation

Concerns Raised:

• May lead to politicization of identity

• Risk of social unrest and polarization

• Distracts from real economic issues

As India prepares for its next electoral cycle, the intersection of caste identity, religious affiliation, and political strategy is becoming more complex.

Manoj Tiwari’s demand that Rahul Gandhi declare his caste publicly is symbolic of a broader ideological and cultural battle that extends beyond just one party or leader. With the caste census on the horizon, these confrontations will only grow sharper.