Is BJP MP Pal Right to Criticize Congress Over Caste Census?
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Synopsis
BJP MP Jagdambika Pal defends the Central government's caste census initiative, calling it a long-awaited step. He criticizes the Congress for spreading confusion and questions their motivations, asserting that this exercise is crucial for India's development.
Key Takeaways
- Central government initiates a caste-based census.
- Jagdambika Pal supports this historic decision.
- Congress accused of spreading confusion.
- Census aims to gather detailed caste-related data.
- Implementation expected to begin in 2026.
New Delhi, June 17 (NationPress) BJP MP Jagdambika Pal expressed his support for the Central government's recent initiative to conduct a caste-based census, deeming it a “historic and long-overdue step.” He accused the Congress party of misleading the public and sowing confusion for political advantages.
This statement follows the Central government's gazette notification on Monday, announcing India's 16th national census, which is set to incorporate caste-related information. The extensive exercise is scheduled to commence on October 1, 2026, in snow-covered regions like Ladakh, while the rest of the nation will begin census activities on March 1, 2027.
In an interview with IANS, Jagdambika Pal remarked, “This is a welcome step. The demand for a caste census has been raised for years—even during the Congress government—but they failed to take action. Now, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, this historic decision has been made. Home Minister Amit Shah not only announced the census but also issued the official notification on June 16, providing a clear timeline. This is unprecedented.”
Pal further criticized the Congress for what he termed “double standards” regarding this issue.
“While the nation embraces this initiative, the Congress is attempting to create confusion and mislead the public. Their sudden concern for caste data is politically motivated,” he stated.
When addressing skepticism from Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav regarding the reliability of the census data, Pal dismissed these concerns as unfounded and politically motivated.
“Akhilesh is now suggesting we should be cautious about the data. But India operates on a federal framework. The same government employees will conduct the census in both BJP and opposition-ruled states. His fears stem from an apprehension that the narrative surrounding the Backward Class is slipping from his grasp,” Pal commented.
He further accused Yadav of fearmongering, referencing past statements made by the SP leader during the Lok Sabha elections.
“Just as he falsely claimed that the Constitution would be amended and reservations abolished, he is now trying to instill doubt regarding the census process,” he added.
Pal also addressed the Congress's claim that the PM Modi administration has reversed its stance on the caste census and called for the implementation of the Telangana model, which includes caste-specific socio-economic data.
“There is no reversal. The census is a constitutional endeavor. The Home Minister has thoroughly outlined the procedures. Approximately 34 lakh government employees will visit households to collect detailed information. Although the term 'caste census' may not be used officially, this entire effort is aimed at gathering such data. The Congress is merely frustrated that it didn't seize this opportunity when it had the chance,” Pal concluded.
Point of View
Jagdambika Pal's statements reflect a significant political moment in India. The caste census could reshape societal structures and resource distribution, emphasizing the importance of transparent data collection. The dialogue surrounding this initiative underscores the ongoing tensions in Indian politics, particularly between the ruling party and opposition.
NationPress
17/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the caste-based census?
The caste-based census is a nationwide survey aimed at collecting data on the caste distribution of the Indian population, set to begin in October 2026.
Why is the caste census important?
The caste census is crucial for understanding social dynamics and ensuring equitable distribution of resources and opportunities based on caste.
What are the concerns regarding the census data?
Some political leaders have raised concerns about the credibility of the census data and its potential misuse for political gain.
When will the census take place?
The census is scheduled to commence in snow-bound regions on October 1, 2026, and in the rest of India on March 1, 2027.
Who will conduct the census?
The census will be conducted by approximately 34 lakh government employees across both BJP-ruled and opposition-ruled states.
