Dharmendra Pradhan's "Crocodile Tears" Jibe At Rahul Gandhi At NDTV Conclave

Reiterating his party's charge that the Congress indulges in feudal politics, Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan launched a scathing jibe at Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi today, accusing him of shedding "crocodile tears" on issues of social justice.

His comment came to a question on the caste census, a long-standing demand by the Congress that has now been adopted by the BJP-led central government. Being seen as a political masterstroke, the caste survey announcement had drawn another rider from Congress, with Mr Gandhi demanding the removal of the 50% cap on reservation.

Speaking at NDTV Education Conclave, Mr Pradhan said Mr Gandhi's views reflect his ignorance, given that he belongs to a party that has historically stood against matters of social justice. "Some shed crocodile tears as a political strategy. Their statements reflect their ignorance and arrogance. In this country's public domain, one family that outspokenly stood against social justice is the Gandhi family," said Mr Pradhan.