A political confrontation erupted on Wednesday between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress after Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi raised concerns over the alleged exclusion of Bahujan entrepreneurs from major public sector contracts.

The विवाद stems from remarks made by Gandhi in Parliament, where he questioned the government over the allocation of public works contracts worth Rs 16,500 crore awarded in the previous year. He sought details on how much of these contracts were granted to businesses owned by Dalits, Adivasis, and Other Backward Classes, alleging systemic gaps in access and representation.

Responding sharply, the Bharatiya Janata Party accused the Congress of having a long-standing “Dalit virodhi” (anti-Dalit) mindset. Party spokesperson C. R. Kesavan claimed that the Congress had historically marginalised Dalit communities and continued to do so under its current leadership.

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Kesavan also targeted the Congress leadership structure, referring to party president Mallikarjun Kharge and alleging that key decisions remain concentrated within the party’s top leadership. He further criticised the Congress for its past actions, invoking leaders such as Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, and Rajiv Gandhi in his remarks.

Adding to the criticism, Bihar minister Dilip Jaiswal questioned Gandhi’s statements and urged him to reflect on the Congress party’s historical record regarding backward communities. He alleged that previous Congress governments had failed to ensure equitable opportunities for marginalised groups.

The exchange highlights an intensifying political debate over social justice, representation, and access to economic opportunities, with both parties trading accusations as they seek to shape the narrative around inclusivity and governance ahead of future political contests.

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