Gadkari Criticizes Caste Census Demand, Stresses on Infrastructure Development and Environment
Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari expressed his concerns about the growing demand for a caste-based census, calling it a politically driven issue. Speaking at the 22nd Hindustan Times Leadership Summit, Gadkari emphasized that progress should not be based on caste, religion, or gender, but on individual qualities. He warned that the issue of backwardness has been exploited for political gain, urging an end to casteism and untouchability, and stressing the need for socioeconomic equality. He further noted that the ongoing debate over caste data in the census is not the solution to creating a just society.
On the political front, Gadkari predicted that the BJP and its allies in Maharashtra would reverse their poor performance in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, citing successful governance and the positive impact of schemes like the Ladki Bahin Yojana. He dismissed allegations from Maratha leader Sharad Pawar regarding party splits, instead accusing Pawar of being responsible for the fragmentation of Maharashtra’s political landscape. Gadkari reiterated his commitment to principled politics, regardless of electoral outcomes.
The minister also highlighted the government’s emphasis on large-scale infrastructure projects, particularly in the road sector, as essential for India’s economic growth. Gadkari outlined plans for green express highways and the promotion of biofuels, which are expected to reduce logistics costs and enhance India’s global competitiveness. He stressed that modernizing infrastructure would lead to better connectivity, reduced pollution, and job creation, ultimately contributing to the nation’s development and poverty reduction.
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