Congress leader Rahul Gandhi ignited hope among Bihar’s Dalits, women, and economically backward classes (EBCs) on Monday, promising that the Mahagathbandhan alliance would champion their upliftment ahead of the state’s looming assembly polls.

Speaking at the 'Samvidhan Suraksha Sammelan' in Patna, Gandhi declared Bihar poised to once again steer India toward a new future, echoing its historic role in movements like Champaran Satyagraha.

With elections due later this year, Gandhi took aim at the 50 per cent reservation ceiling, branding it a "fake barrier" that Congress would dismantle if it secures power at the Centre. He pointed to Telangana’s caste census—conducted under Congress rule—as a blueprint for a nationwide exercise that could redefine India’s development model. "We’ll do an X-ray of the country," he said, accusing the BJP and RSS of opposing such measures to keep weaker sections sidelined.

Gandhi’s day began in Begusarai, joining the Congress’ 'Palayan Roko, Naukri Do' padyatra to demand jobs and curb migration, before returning to Patna for the symposium. He slammed the treatment of marginalized communities as "second-class citizens" and rallied support for economic and social justice. In a fiery X post, he wrote, "Bihar has always taken concrete steps against injustice… Let’s unite against attacks on the Constitution and discrimination."

The Mahagathbandhan, a coalition of opposition parties, is banking on this message to resonate with Bihar’s diverse electorate. As the political temperature rises, Gandhi’s pledge to prioritize caste equity and welfare could shape the battle lines for the upcoming polls, challenging the ruling NDA’s grip on the state.