Amravati: In a stark critique of Indian politics, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has pointed out a stark reality—while the common populace is generally not driven by casteist sentiments, political leaders often exploit these divisions for personal gain. This assertion by Gadkari casts a spotlight on the broader issue of how backwardness is becoming a tool in political strategizing, with politicians vying to prove who is more disadvantaged. This trend not only highlights the pervasive influence of social inequality but also underscores the urgent need for change from within.
The mainstay of Gadkari’s argument is that people are inherently not casteist; rather, it is political leaders who leverage caste for selfish interests. Observing the growing politicization of backwardness, Gadkari noted that there is a competitive race among politicians to outdo each other in claiming who is more backward. This phenomenon, Gadkari believes, must be addressed by dismantling caste discrimination and eradicating social inequality, a process he suggests should begin at the individual level. He emphasized these points during an event held in Amravati on Saturday, reiterating the importance of tackling social inequality in a comprehensive manner.
