Sanjay Jha Responds to Rahul Gandhi's Statements Amid Bihar Political Tensions

Political Clash in Bihar

Sanjay Jha, a member of the JDU and leader of the opposition in the Lok Sabha, has countered remarks made by Congress MP Rahul Gandhi. Jha pointed out that the administration denied permission for Gandhi's visit to a hostel in Darbhanga, questioning the appropriateness of holding a political meeting in such a venue. However, when Gandhi's party later sought permission for a town hall meeting, it was granted. Jha criticized Gandhi, asserting that he shows no concern for the plight of poor students or backward classes, claiming his visit was purely politically motivated due to the upcoming elections in Bihar.

JDU's Stance on Reservation and Caste Census

Jha, who serves as the acting president of JDU, emphasized that during the time RJD and Congress were in power, there was no reservation for Dalits and backward classes in panchayats. He credited Chief Minister Nitish Kumar for implementing reservation policies. Regarding the caste census, Jha noted that Kumar is the only leader in the country who has conducted a caste-based survey in Bihar and released its data. He mentioned that even when JDU was part of the India alliance, they repeatedly proposed this initiative, but it was not accepted.

Rahul Gandhi's Halted Visit

On Thursday, police stopped Rahul Gandhi from entering the Ambedkar Hostel in Darbhanga, where he was scheduled to engage with students. His convoy was barred from entering the premises as he arrived for a discussion with students as part of the party's 'Education Justice Dialogue' initiative, which is a statewide outreach program.

Gandhi's Determination Amidst Challenges

Rahul Gandhi claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi agreed to conduct a caste census out of fear of the marginalized population. The MP from Raebareli recounted, 'As you all know, my car was stopped at the gate of Mithila University. However, I did not give up. I got out and walked here via a winding path.' He launched the Education Justice Dialogue program in Bihar, coinciding with the state's assembly elections scheduled for later this year.