Rahul Gandhi Urges Reform for Inclusive Governance
and Updated Economic Policies

Los Angeles/Sept 12, 2024
NRIpress.club/Ramesh/Agary Singh

Rahul Gandhi, a prominent opposition leader in India, has called for a fundamental shift towards more inclusive governance and a modernized economic strategy to address current global challenges.

In his address at the Club Headliner Newsmaker on September 10, Gandhi highlighted the issue of inadequate representation in Indian politics. “A significant portion of India, about ninety percent, is not adequately represented,” he said, emphasizing the need for improved inclusion of tribal communities, lower castes, Dalits, and minorities. “Their participation in governance remains insufficient.”

Leading the Indian National Congress, Gandhi committed to his coalition’s goal of enhancing representation for these marginalized groups. After a record voter turnout of 950 million in the recent elections, the Indian National Development Inclusive Alliance now holds 234 seats in Parliament, though it remains 30 seats short of a majority.

“If I can help make India even a bit fairer, I would view it as a significant achievement,” Gandhi stated.

He also addressed the lack of diversity in top corporate and media roles, noting that these sectors are predominantly controlled by upper-caste individuals. “Top management and media positions are largely occupied by those from upper castes,” he observed.

Gandhi reflected on the political changes since 2014, describing a shift towards more aggressive challenges to democratic norms and how these changes have affected him personally.

Regarding his recent journey across India, Gandhi explained, “With traditional democratic channels failing—media and judicial systems were not functioning effectively—the only option was to engage directly with the people.”

He characterized the current political climate as a struggle between his party’s inclusive approach and the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) alleged divisive tactics.

On economic matters, Gandhi proposed adopting a modernized manufacturing model to address global challenges and suggested strengthening strategic relations with the United States. “Our democracy is our greatest strategic asset and holds global significance,” he emphasized.

Gandhi, who was previously disqualified from Parliament and imprisoned for criticizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has had his disqualification overturned by the Supreme Court and was re-elected this spring.

• Rahul Gandhi is General Secretary of the Indian National Congress in charge of the youth and student organisations of the Party.
• In January 2013, he assumed office as Vice President of the Indian National Congress.

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