Lucknow: The OBC Department of the All India Congress Committee (AICC) held a significant press conference in Lucknow, outlining its stance on social justice, caste census, and OBC rights. The briefing was led by Anil Jaihind, National President of OBC Congress, along with several senior leaders.
Mega Event to Mark Phule’s 200th Birth Anniversary
Addressing the media, Dr. Jaihind announced a grand कार्यक्रम on April 11, 2026, at the Indira Gandhi Pratishthan to commemorate the 200th birth anniversary of Jyotirao Phule. The event is expected to witness participation from prominent Congress leaders and social justice advocates, including Bhupesh Baghel, Ponnam Prabhakar, Avinash Pande, Ajay Rai, and Imran Pratapgarhi, among others.
Dr. Jaihind highlighted Phule’s contribution to social reform, stating that his legacy continues to inspire movements for equality. He also credited Rahul Gandhi for carrying forward the agenda of social justice.
Demand for Scientific Caste Census
The OBC Congress strongly demanded a nationwide scientific caste census, urging the central government to go beyond mere population counting. Dr. Jaihind emphasized the need to collect detailed data on socio-economic status, education, employment, and political representation of various communities.
He cited the Telangana model as an example, stating that its comprehensive questionnaire-based approach could serve as a benchmark for national implementation.
Recognition for Telangana Model
The organization announced that Telangana Minister Ponnam Prabhakar will be honored for his role in implementing a scientific caste census in the state.
Concerns Over Women’s Reservation Bill
Raising concerns over the proposed Women’s Reservation Bill, Dr. Jaihind alleged that it lacks provisions for OBC women. He warned that without adequate representation, the social balance in Parliament could be disrupted, potentially sidelining OBC interests.
Allegations of OBC Neglect in Census Process
The OBC Congress also criticized the absence of a separate OBC category in census housing forms, calling it an indication of the government’s lack of commitment toward understanding and addressing the community’s issues.
Warning of Nationwide Agitation
Issuing a strong warning, Dr. Jaihind stated that a nationwide आंदोलन would be launched if constitutional rights of OBC women are not ensured. He recalled the contributions of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi in strengthening OBC reservation at the पंचायत level.
The movement, he said, will be carried out under the guidance of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and senior leader Rahul Gandhi.
Wide Participation of Leaders
The press conference was attended by several prominent नेताओं including Jitendra Baghel, Shahnawaz Alam, Kannan Gopinathan (former IAS officer), Keshav Chand Yadav, Manoj Yadav, Om Prakash Mehto, Sachin Rawat, and others.
Call for Social Justice
Concluding the address, Dr. Jaihind asserted, “The power of the people is greater than those in सत्ता,” reiterating the organization’s commitment to social justice and equal representation.
