The central government made a groundbreaking decision on Wednesday to incorporate caste data collection in the forthcoming census. The initiative received enthusiastic support from Bihar's Chief Minister, Nitish Kumar, who stated that this move addresses a long-standing demand and plays a crucial role in national development.
Chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the 'super cabinet' meeting convened on Wednesday with key ministers in attendance. This assembly led to pivotal decisions, notably the organization of a caste-based census. After the session, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw held a press briefing to announce the inclusion of caste enumeration in the upcoming population survey.
Nitish Kumar Applauds the Decision
Nitish Kumar expressed his gratitude on the social media platform X, stating, “The central government’s decision to conduct a caste census is commendable. Our demand for a caste census is longstanding, and it is indeed heartening that the government has heeded this call. By identifying the numbers of various social groups, we can better formulate plans for their upliftment and development, thereby boosting national progress. My sincere thanks to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for this pivotal decision.”
Targeting the Opposition
Kumar highlighted that caste data will now be collected transparently during the census, avoiding societal confusion and political polarization. Vaishnaw remarked, “Some states have conducted caste surveys for ‘political aims’, creating suspicion within society. Now that this task rests with the central government, it will proceed with full transparency.”
He also contended that prior administrations, particularly the Congress, utilized the concept of a caste census merely as a political tool. He recalled that in 2010, then-Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had proposed examining the issue in the cabinet but ultimately, only a survey known as the SECC (Socio-Economic and Caste Census) was conducted.”
Congress Counters
Following the government’s announcement, opposition leaders, including those from Congress, responded. Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera questioned, “The government had accused Rahul Gandhi of dividing society into castes; will it now do the same? Those who previously criticized Gandhi will now deem this move a ‘masterstroke’.”
Khera elaborated, “If the government intends to endorse Rahul Gandhi’s viewpoint, why oppose it initially? This marks the fourth or fifth instance of opposing and then eventually accepting his stance. Either they lack governance skills or seek social justice by commencing with a caste census, which involves additional essential steps.”
Lalu Yadav’s Retort to Critics
Reacting to the central decision, RJD Chief Lalu Yadav remarked, “We socialists have advocated for reservations, caste surveys, equality, fraternity, and secularism for over 30 years, concepts others follow decades later. We have delivered a decisive response to those labeling us caste-centric. Much remains to be done, and we will continue orchestrating these agendas.”
Tejashwi Claims Victory
RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav hailed the government’s decision as a triumph. “This has been our demand for 30 years. This is a victory for us, the socialists, and Lalu Yadav. Previously, all Bihar parties met with the Prime Minister, but he dismissed our demand. Despite several ministers rejecting it, our influence compelled them to follow our agenda.”
