Chennai, January 10 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, M.K. Stalin, has addressed a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expressing his approval of the Central government's decision to undertake a caste-based census in conjunction with the forthcoming national population census. He has also advocated for the establishment of a high-level advisory council that would include chief ministers and representatives from various states and Union Territories.

In the correspondence dated January 10, 2026, CM Stalin highlighted that the inclusion of a caste census in the national enumeration process would yield comprehensive and credible data, which is crucial for tackling social disparities and ensuring that welfare initiatives effectively reach their target audiences.

He characterized this initiative as aligning with Tamil Nadu's longstanding requests and noted that resolutions urging the Centre to implement a caste-based census alongside the population census have already been passed in the state Assembly.

The Chief Minister asserted that the Centre's decision underscores Tamil Nadu's dedication to evidence-based social justice and informed policy-making.

However, he warned that conducting a caste census is a highly sensitive endeavor due to the deeply entrenched and diverse social dynamics and caste systems across various states. If not managed carefully, he indicated that this process could provoke unintended social tensions.

Stalin stressed that the public's trust in the census will hinge on the clarity and precision of its framework, which includes how questions are formulated, the classification of categories and subcategories, and the methodology for data collection.

Any ambiguity or inaccuracies, he cautioned, might lead to disputes and varied interpretations of the data gathered.

He noted that since the census falls under the Central government's purview, its outcomes would significantly impact state-level policies related to education, employment, reservations, and welfare schemes. Thus, he emphasized the necessity of extensive consultations with all states prior to finalizing the questionnaire and methodologies.

Such discussions, according to him, would help incorporate a range of perspectives from states and Union Territories, respect regional sensitivities, and enhance the spirit of federalism.

In this regard, CM Stalin formally proposed the formation of an advisory council made up of chief ministers and representatives from Union Territories, tasked with devising clear guidelines for the execution of the caste-based census.

He also called upon the Centre to pay special attention to maintaining the sensitivity of the process and ensuring the reliability of the data, including conducting pilot studies whenever necessary.

In closing his letter, the Chief Minister expressed optimism that this landmark initiative, under the Prime Minister's guidance, would strengthen India's commitment to equality, inclusion, and the foundational principles of federalism.