Pralhad Joshi Slams Congress on Caste Census, Inflation; Defends Modi Govt’s Economic Record

By A Staff Reporter

HUBBALLI: Union Minister Pralhad Joshi on Thursday launched a sharp attack on the Congress party over its stance on the caste census and economic issues, accusing it of political hypocrisy and policy failure during its time in power.

Speaking to reporters in Hubballi, Joshi questioned why the Congress, despite being in power for decades, failed to conduct a caste-based census. “Congress conducted six censuses. Why did they not conduct a caste census? Why did their leaders oppose it?” he asked. Joshi also pointed out that the Kaka Kalelkar Commission report, which addressed backward class welfare, was ignored until the Modi government brought it into focus. “Before speaking, they should understand they did not do this in 10 years of their power,” he added.

Responding to Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s criticism of the Centre’s handling of inflation, Joshi defended the Modi government's economic track record. “The food inflation today is just 2.69%, while it was 13-14% during the UPA government. This is the lowest food inflation we’ve seen,” he claimed, further noting that consumer inflation has dropped by 5%.

He also accused the Congress-led Karnataka government of burdening citizens. “They increased property registration charges, electricity tariffs, and milk prices. What moral ground do they have to speak about inflation?” he questioned.