Is Congress Questioning the Government’s Intent on Caste Enumeration for Census 2027?
Synopsis
In a noteworthy development, Congress has raised serious concerns about the central government's approach to caste enumeration in Census 2027. The party calls for immediate consultations with key stakeholders, raising significant questions about transparency and intent in this crucial process.
Key Takeaways
Congress raises alarms over government’s lack of clarity on caste enumeration.
Immediate consultations with political parties and civil society are demanded.
Phase-1 of Census 2027 is set between April and September 2026.
Concerns about Question 12’s formulation highlight potential biases .
Data collection is essential for social and economic justice .
New Delhi, (NationPress) The Congress party on Monday expressed significant apprehensions regarding the central government's strategy for caste enumeration in the upcoming Census 2027, citing a lack of transparency and genuine intent.
The party has urged for prompt discussions with political entities, state administrations, and civil society groups prior to finalizing this important exercise.
Congress General Secretary (Communications) and Rajya Sabha MP Jairam Ramesh stated that Phase-1 of the long-delayed Census 2027, which involves the Houselisting and Housing Census, is set to occur between April and September 2026. Phase-2, focusing on Population Enumeration, is scheduled for September 2026 in regions such as Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Ladakh, and the snowbound areas of Jammu and Kashmir. For the rest of the nation, this enumeration is planned for February 2027.
Pointing to what he referred to as a “complete U-turn” by the central government, Ramesh indicated that the Modi administration unexpectedly announced on April 30, 2025, that caste enumeration would be included in Census 2027, despite its previous staunch opposition to the concept.
“The Modi government had consistently dismissed the notion of a caste census,” Ramesh remarked, recalling the Centre's reiterated stance during a Lok Sabha reply on July 20, 2021, and an affidavit presented to the Supreme Court on September 21, 2021.
He also highlighted that as recently as April 28, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had labeled those advocating for a caste census as having an “urban naxal mindset”.
“It is evident that the Prime Minister was compelled to submit to the widespread demand for a caste census, a plea prominently voiced by the Indian National Congress, led by Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi,” Ramesh noted.
Ramesh raised alarms regarding the newly released list of subjects for the Houselisting and Housing Census Schedule. He pointed out that Question 12 merely inquires whether the head of the household belongs to the Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribe, or ‘Other’ categories, lacking explicit references to OBC and General categories.
“Given that caste enumeration is to be a part of Census 2027, the formulation of Question 12 casts serious doubts on the Modi government's true motives and its dedication to a thorough, equitable nationwide caste census,” he emphasized.
Ramesh urged the government to swiftly engage in dialogue with all relevant parties before finalizing the specifics of caste enumeration.
“Such consultations were a crucial component of the SEEEPC Survey executed by the Telangana government in 2025,” he added, asserting that this exercise remains “the most comprehensive and meaningful method for gathering essential caste-wise data on education, employment, income, and political participation.”
He stressed that such data is vital for promoting “greater economic and social justice” across the nation.
Point of View
It is essential to remain neutral while acknowledging the Congress's valid concerns about the government's handling of caste enumeration in Census 2027. Open dialogue and inclusivity are critical for ensuring a fair and comprehensive census process that reflects the diverse fabric of our nation.
NationPress
7 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is caste enumeration in Census 2027?
Caste enumeration in Census 2027 refers to the process of collecting data on the caste affiliations of individuals during the national census, which aims to provide insights into social and economic disparities.
Why is Congress concerned about caste enumeration?
Congress is concerned due to perceived inconsistencies in the government's commitment to caste enumeration, highlighting a lack of transparency and the need for consultations with stakeholders.
What is the timeline for Census 2027?
Phase-1 of Census 2027 is scheduled between April and September 2026, with Phase-2 for Population Enumeration taking place in February 2027 across most of the country.
How does caste enumeration affect social justice?
Caste enumeration is crucial for identifying and addressing social and economic inequalities, enabling targeted policies for upliftment and justice for marginalized communities.
What was the Modi government's previous stance on caste census?
The Modi government previously opposed caste census, but recent developments indicate a shift in its approach, leading to questions about its authenticity and intent.
