At the event organized by the Ministry of Skill Development and Empowerment, Vice President Dhankhar emphasized the importance of constitutional awareness. He clarified that reservations should not be viewed as contrary to meritocracy.
NEW DELHI: Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar condemned Congress leader Rahul Gandhi‘s recent remarks advocating for the abolition of reservations.
At the event organized by the Ministry of Skill Development and Empowerment, Vice President Dhankhar emphasized the importance of constitutional awareness. He clarified that reservations should not be viewed as contrary to meritocracy.
“Reservations are not against meritocracy; they are integral to our country and Constitution. They represent affirmative action, not a negative one. They are meant to support, not hinder, those who are the bedrock of our society,” Dhankhar stated.
He also criticized past Congress governments for handling the Mandal Commission Report, noting that it remained undisclosed for a decade and that former Prime Ministers Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi did not act on its recommendations.
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Dhankhar emphasized that the
“Constitution should not be treated as a mere symbolic document but should be thoroughly respected, studied, and understood”.
He asserted,
“Some are talking about the nature of the Constitution without knowing it. At a time like this, it is essential for everyone to understand the Constitution.” He criticized Gandhi for allegedly undermining the Constitution’s values and stressed the importance of upholding it.
Addressing the youth, Dhankhar urged them to counteract such negative attitudes.
He remarked,
“Talking on foreign soil about removing reservations for individuals in constitutional posts is a proof of anti-constitutional mentality. This kind of anti-reservation attitude is probably inherited by him.”
Dhankhar asserted that reservations are crucial for supporting the social groups that form the foundation of society.
Dhankhar’s comments emphasized a broader debate on the role and significance of reservations in India. His remarks reflect a strong defense of the constitutional provisions designed to uplift marginalized communities and maintain social equity.
Dhankhar also highlighted that Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, despite his significant contributions as the architect of the Indian Constitution, only received the Bharat Ratna posthumously in 1990 after a considerable delay.
“Everyone recognized Ambedkar’s immense contributions, yet the highest civilian award was granted to him much later,” he remarked.
