In a recent rally in Kutumba, Bihar, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi made a bold assertion that only 10% of the Indian population, referring to upper castes, control the Army and other key institutions. Speaking ahead of the Bihar Assembly elections, he highlighted that the remaining 90% of the population, which includes Dalits, Adivasis, and other backward communities, are largely excluded from power and opportunities.

"All the wealth goes to them, all the jobs go to them. Look at the judiciary - they have control there, and even in the army," he stated, emphasizing the need for greater representation of marginalized communities in India's development. He warned that if this trend continues, wealth will remain concentrated in the hands of a few.

The BJP quickly responded to Gandhi's remarks, with spokesperson Suresh Nakhua accusing him of spreading divisive narratives. Nakhua stated, "Rahul Gandhi is now searching for caste in the Armed Forces and says 10% of people control it. In his hate for PM Modi, he has already crossed the line into hating India."

Gandhi also criticized the Bihar government, led by Nitish Kumar, for high unemployment rates, claiming that many Biharis are forced to seek low-paying jobs across the country. He said, "The truth is this—that Nitish Kumar has wiped out employment here and turned the people of Bihar into the country’s labourers."

This statement is not the first time Gandhi has faced backlash for his comments regarding the armed forces. Previously, he was criticized for remarks about Chinese troops and their actions against Indian soldiers. As the political landscape heats up ahead of the elections, Gandhi's comments have reignited discussions about caste, representation, and employment in India.