Is Ashwini Vaishnaw Targeting Congress and the INDIA Bloc Over Caste Census Politics?
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Synopsis
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has taken a strong stance against Congress and the INDIA bloc for allegedly politicizing the caste census issue. He emphasizes the need for a comprehensive and transparent approach to ensure societal integrity amidst political motives. This article delves into the historical context and implications of the caste census debate.
Key Takeaways
- Ashwini Vaishnaw criticizes Congress for its stance on the caste census.
- Emphasis on the need for a systematic and transparent approach.
- India's social fabric is a central concern in the caste census debate.
- Historical context regarding Manmohan Singh's government and caste census discussions.
- Recent actions by Congress-led states in conducting caste censuses.
New Delhi, April 30 (NationPress) Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, during an announcement regarding the caste census alongside the upcoming national Census, criticized the Congress party for its long-standing refusal to conduct such an exercise since Independence.
In a press conference, the Union Minister stated that both the Congress and the INDIA bloc have consistently opposed the concept of a caste census, using it merely as a ‘political weapon’ to disseminate misinformation.
He further condemned the ‘unscientific and impractical’ methods adopted by some state governments for caste census surveys, asserting that these initiatives only serve to foster confusion and mistrust within society.
“The subject of the Census falls under the Central domain. Nonetheless, various states have undertaken caste census surveys. While some states have approached this matter systematically, others have conducted it in a politically driven and opaque manner,” he noted.
The Union Minister emphasized that the decision to incorporate caste counting into the original census aims to preserve the integrity of the social fabric against political pressures.
“This will bolster the economic and social strength of society, ensuring the nation’s continuous progress,” he asserted, reiterating the government’s commitment to the overall welfare and values of the country and society.
He referenced the tenure of Manmohan Singh, claiming that despite a consensus, the Congress-led government resisted addressing the issue.
“In 2010, then Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh assured the Lok Sabha that the caste census would be reviewed by the Cabinet. A Cabinet Group was formed, with most political parties advocating for a caste-based census. Yet, the Congress government chose to postpone it,” he stated.
Importantly, the Centre's decision to combine the caste census with the national census follows several Congress-led governments implementing similar exercises.
Bihar was the pioneer state to carry out a caste-based census in 2022, cataloging the population of each caste within the state. Congress-led states, including Karnataka and Telangana, subsequently followed suit and conducted their own caste census.
Point of View
It is crucial to present an unbiased perspective. The ongoing debate over the caste census underscores the complex interplay of politics and social dynamics in India. It is essential to acknowledge the varied viewpoints while understanding the broader implications for national unity and progress.
NationPress
09/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why has the caste census become a controversial topic?
The caste census is controversial due to its political implications and the historical reluctance of certain parties to support it, leading to debates about social equity and representation.
What is the government's stance on the caste census?
The government advocates for a caste census to preserve social integrity and ensure balanced economic and social development.
How have state governments approached the caste census?
State governments have varied in their approaches, with some conducting systematic surveys while others have been criticized for politically motivated actions.
