Is the Centre’s Decision on Caste Census Truly 'Revolutionary'?
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Synopsis
The NDA leaders in Bihar hail the Centre's decision for a nationwide caste-based census as a significant and transformative move. This article explores the implications of this decision and the responses from key political figures in Bihar, highlighting its potential impact on social equity and upcoming elections.
Key Takeaways
- Centre announces nationwide caste census
- Historical move towards inclusivity
- Empowerment of marginalized communities
- Political significance ahead of Bihar elections
- Accurate data for welfare policies
Patna, April 30 (NationPress) Leaders of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Bihar have expressed their admiration for the Central government's announcement to carry out a nationwide caste-based census in conjunction with the upcoming general population census, labeling this move as historic and a revolutionary step towards fostering inclusive development.
Union Food Processing Minister Chirag Paswan embraced the initiative, stating that it fulfills a long-standing aspiration. “The demand for a caste census has been a cornerstone of our party. Today, this aspiration has been realized. I extend my sincere gratitude to our esteemed Prime Minister,” Paswan remarked.
He noted that this decision dispels years of conjecture regarding any discord between him and the Central government over the caste census. “This initiative will bring about significant change towards inclusive development and yield concrete data to empower marginalized segments of society,” he asserted.
Bihar's Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary resonated with this perspective, declaring the action as historic. “Prime Minister Modi has made a groundbreaking decision. It will unveil the socio-economic realities of underprivileged communities and aid in formulating effective welfare policies,” he stated.
BJP Bihar State President Dilip Jaiswal also praised the decision, emphasizing its potential to transform India’s socio-economic landscape. “For the first time since Independence, a government has opted to comprehend the genuine social framework through data. While Congress has historically engaged in caste appeasement, Prime Minister Modi is dedicated to societal upliftment with the mantra of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, and Sabka Vishwas,” he noted.
This announcement holds considerable political weight, particularly in light of the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections, where caste dynamics are crucial.
Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) national president Lalu Prasad Yadav remarked that the push for a caste census dates back to his tenure as National President of Janata Dal during the United Front government in 1996-97, which sanctioned a cabinet decision to execute the caste census in 2001.
“However, the NDA government led by Vajpayee failed to implement it,” Yadav recounted.
In 2011, during the UPA government, he, along with the late Mulayam Singh Yadav and Sharad Yadav, had obstructed Parliament for several days advocating for a caste-based census. “Parliament resumed only after Prime Minister Manmohan Singh guaranteed a socio-economic survey,” he added.
Yadav further highlighted that Bihar, under the Mahagathbandhan government, was the first state to conduct a caste survey during its 17-month rule, setting a benchmark for others.
“What we socialists envisioned 30 years ago - whether it's reservation, caste census, equality, brotherhood, or secularism - others have only begun to follow decades later,” he remarked.
Earlier today, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, following a Union Cabinet meeting presided over by PM Modi, formally declared the intention to carry out a caste census. “The castes will be enumerated in the census itself. Congress has never executed a caste census despite numerous opportunities. Our government has made this decision in the national interest,” Vaishnaw stated during a press conference in New Delhi.
The Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs, which comprises senior ministers like Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, and PM Modi, endorsed this decision.
Point of View
The decision to conduct a caste census represents a pivotal shift towards inclusivity in governance. As the nation grapples with socio-economic disparities, accurate data will be crucial for formulating effective policies aimed at uplifting marginalized communities. This initiative, while politically significant, could lay the groundwork for a more equitable society moving forward.
NationPress
17/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the caste census?
The caste census aims to provide accurate data on socio-economic conditions of various communities, helping to create targeted welfare policies for marginalized groups.
Why is the caste census being conducted now?
The decision comes as a response to long-standing demands for accurate representation of caste demographics, particularly ahead of the upcoming 2025 Bihar Assembly elections.
How will the caste census be conducted?
The caste census will be integrated into the general population census, ensuring that caste data is collected alongside other demographic information.
What are the expected outcomes of the caste census?
The expected outcomes include improved understanding of socio-economic disparities and more effective policymaking aimed at social upliftment.
Who supports the caste census initiative?
The initiative is supported by various leaders within the NDA, including Union Minister Chirag Paswan and Bihar's Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary.
