Congress Party Pledges to Establish a Dedicated Ministry for Backward Classes if Elected

The Congress Party has pledged to create a new ministry specifically aimed at tackling the issues facing those from backward classes, as well as scheduled castes, scheduled tribes, and others, should it come to power, according to Mukul Wasnik, general secretary of the All India Congress Committee. Speaking at a meeting of Maharashtra Congress’ SC Cell, Wasnik criticised the BJP government for reducing welfare funds for backward classes and failing to implement schemes designed to help these groups. Wasnik also promised that budgetary provisions for welfare schemes would be made in direct proportion to the size of the population of backward classes. Maharashtra Congress President, Nana Patole, also spoke at the meeting, stating that Hindutva forces have emerged since 2014, disturbing the peaceful society advocated by the likes of B.R. Ambedkar and Mahatma Jyotirao Phule. Patole revealed the party will begin a Dikshabhumi to Chaityabhumi Constitution Gaurav Yatra soon, to defend the Constitution and democracy.