Did the Centre Announce the Caste Census Due to Public Pressure?
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Synopsis
In a heated address, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge accused the Union government of lacking genuine interest in a census until public pressure mounted. He demands increased reservations for SCs and STs and clarifies misconceptions regarding the caste census. With promises of support to sanitation workers, the government aims for significant societal uplift.
Key Takeaways
- Mallikarjun Kharge criticizes the Union government for lack of interest in census.
- The announcement of a caste census was influenced by public pressure.
- Demands for increased reservations in private sectors are highlighted.
- The government is taking steps to regularize sanitation workers.
- Misconceptions about Nehru's stance on the caste census are addressed.
Bengaluru, May 1 (NationPress) Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has slammed the Union government on Thursday, asserting it lacks any genuine interest in conducting a population census.
“However, due to rising public pressure, it has now declared its intention to conduct a caste census alongside the general census. The reservation for SCs and STs should extend to private companies, and the current 50% reservation limit must be increased,” Kharge stated during the Civic Workers’ Day celebration and appointment letter distribution event organized by the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP).
Kharge noted that the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, has been actively campaigning across the nation advocating for a caste census.
“On April 16, 2023, I personally wrote a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi urging him to initiate a caste census. At that time, PM Modi disregarded our request. Now, just to take credit, he has suddenly convened a special cabinet meeting and announced a caste census,” Kharge alleged.
He also attacked the BJP for disseminating misinformation that the first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, was opposed to the caste census.
“That is completely untrue. Nehru never opposed it. In fact, it was Nehru who enacted the Hindu Code Bill drafted by B.R. Ambedkar,” he clarified.
Kharge emphasized that only the Congress party is dedicated to the welfare of the poor, adding, “The BJP lacks true compassion for the impoverished and marginalized.”
During the gathering, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced that civic workers have now achieved permanent status and that in the near future, drivers, assistants, and operators—approximately 9,000 individuals—will also be granted permanent positions.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to regularizing those involved in sanitation efforts.
Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar mentioned that the state government has fulfilled its promise to elevate the status of pourakarmikas by granting them permanent employment.
“Our government recognizes four pillars for a stable society—farmer, laborer, soldier, and teacher. We regard pourakarmikas as ambassadors of cleanliness and as children of God. Your contributions are vital for Bengaluru's global recognition,” he remarked.
“We promised to make contract pourakarmikas permanent employees, and today we have honored that commitment. The children of pourakarmikas are actively participating in this event. Our aspiration is to see them succeed and occupy prominent roles in society,” he added.
“We have allocated Rs 600 crore for the welfare of pourakarmikas in the budget. Thousands have been granted permanent positions in the government without any corruption. Some cases remain unresolved due to document validity, and we are establishing dedicated booths to address these issues. We will ensure justice for you,” he concluded.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the socio-political context surrounding the caste census announcement. While the Congress party highlights the need for transparency and representation, the government's recent move indicates responsiveness to public demands. This evolving narrative reflects the ongoing debate around caste and reservation, a pivotal issue in Indian politics.
NationPress
01/05/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the Centre to announce a caste census?
The Centre's announcement of a caste census was largely attributed to increasing public pressure and demands from political figures like Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi.
What are the key demands related to the caste census?
The key demands include increased reservations for SCs and STs in private companies and raising the current 50% reservation cap.
Did Jawaharlal Nehru oppose the caste census?
No, it has been clarified that Jawaharlal Nehru did not oppose the caste census. He was instrumental in implementing the Hindu Code Bill.
What initiatives have been pledged for sanitation workers?
The government has pledged to regularize sanitation workers and provide them with permanent employment, along with a significant budget allocation for their welfare.
How has the Congress party positioned itself regarding the caste census?
The Congress party has positioned itself as the champion of the poor and marginalized, advocating for transparency and representation through the caste census.
