Rahul Gandhi and Nishikant Dubey trade barbs in Lok Sabha over caste census and past policies
April 17, 2026: A heated exchange unfolded in the Lok Sabha ahead of the Women’s Reservation Bill vote, as Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi accused the government of attempting to suppress the caste census issue. Responding sharply, BJP MP Nishikant Dubey countered that previous Congress-led governments had failed to conduct a caste census when in power, alleging historical opposition to the exercise.
Dubey also took personal jibes at Rahul Gandhi’s speech, criticising its tone and content. He claimed that leaders like Sonia Gandhi and Manmohan Singh had differing stances on the caste census, suggesting it was implemented only under political pressure. The remarks added to the already charged atmosphere in Parliament.
The debate further intensified when Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav intervened, urging a focus on constructive dialogue rather than past disputes. The exchange briefly turned symbolic, with references to religious incidents and public conduct, highlighting the broader political tensions as parties clashed over both policy and narrative ahead of the crucial vote.