Should the Centre Adopt Telangana's Model for Caste Census?
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Synopsis
Telangana's Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy advocates for the Congress Working Committee's support of a caste census model that emphasizes public involvement and transparency. This proposal could reshape India's approach to social equality and justice.
Key Takeaways
- Telangana's caste survey model emphasizes transparency and public involvement.
- The CWC supports the adoption of this model for national implementation.
- Consultation with civil society and community leaders is essential.
- Unique caste compositions in states require tailored approaches.
- The importance of social justice and equitable representation is highlighted.
Hyderabad, May 2 (NationPress) - Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy asserted that the Congress Working Committee (CWC) recognizes the caste survey model implemented in Telangana as a robust and inclusive framework that the Government of India should adopt for conducting a nationwide caste census.
During his participation in the CWC meeting in Delhi on Friday, the Chief Minister shared on X that the meeting took place at a pivotal moment in India’s history, as the country grapples with numerous challenges.
From national security to social justice, shifting global dynamics, and economic disparities, India stands at a critical juncture.
“The Congress party remains committed to stepping up for the nation. While recognizing that the advocacy from Rahul Gandhi ji has spurred a decision for a caste census, we will strive to ensure that it is executed with the right intentions and in a proper manner,” he noted in his post.
In Telangana, the caste survey was crafted through a consultative and transparent process, engaging civil society, social scientists, and community leaders. Unlike a closed bureaucratic initiative, it was open to public contributions and evaluations. The CWC fervently urged the Central government to replicate this method for the national caste census, as the Chief Minister highlighted.
“I felt motivated after my discussions with our senior leadership, including Mallikarjun Kharge ji and Sonia Gandhi ji, covering various issues concerning India’s current and future landscape,” he added.
On Thursday, Revanth Reddy proposed that the Centre should emulate the Telangana model for the caste census by establishing a group of ministers and an expert committee to analyze the caste demographics in each state prior to executing the caste census as part of the general census.
He urged that the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi should first assemble a group of ministers to foster consensus by engaging with state governments and stakeholders. Following this, an expert committee, including officials, should be formed to define the terms of reference for the caste census, he stated.
Recognizing the unique caste compositions in each state, Revanth Reddy emphasized that the expert committee should traverse all states to comprehend the circumstances, enabling the creation of a questionnaire for the caste census.
He remarked that the Centre should take inspiration from Telangana, which organized a group of ministers to consult with political parties, caste organizations, and civil society, conducting thorough studies in every district.
He highlighted that after consulting with all sections of society, 57 questions were crafted to gather data during the caste census, with detailed information collected from each family using these inquiries.
Point of View
I believe that the call for a caste census through a participatory model is essential for addressing social inequalities. The approach taken by Telangana can serve as a benchmark for national policy, ensuring that diverse voices contribute to the census process.
NationPress
17/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Telangana model for caste census?
The Telangana model for caste census emphasizes public participation, transparency, and thorough consultation with civil society and community leaders.
Why is a caste census important?
A caste census is crucial for understanding social dynamics and ensuring equitable representation and resource allocation among different communities.
Who supports the Telangana model?
The Congress Working Committee, led by figures like A. Revanth Reddy, advocates for the adoption of the Telangana model at the national level.
What challenges does India face regarding social justice?
India faces challenges such as economic inequalities, changing global dynamics, and the need for enhanced social justice measures.
How can the Centre implement this model?
The Centre can implement this model by forming a group of ministers and an expert committee to consult with states and draft a comprehensive approach for the census.
