Caste Census Explained: Caste census has also become an imperative issue of the Indian government and politics that pursues narrowing down socio-economic deficits and upholding equality. Even though the issue has remained subject to dispute in several decades, current instances pushed it onto center stage where, for the first time ever, Congress articulated the need in cogent words for it. The Telangana move influenced the other states too.
A caste census is the process of gathering data on the identity of individuals on the basis of their caste in a national or state-level survey. The data gives statistics regarding the demographic concentration, socio-economic status, and representation of different caste groups. It has been said to be one of the rudimentary tools in policy formulation on affirmative action, social welfare schemes, and social justice.
Congress party has remained firm on the demand for caste census, insisting that it’s an imperative for balancing imbalances. Rahul Gandhi, while on his Bharat Jodo Yatra, kept the issue at the forefront, demanding a countrywide caste count from the government. Congress leaders have attributed credit to upholding their steady perseverance by having pushed the government into accepting the move, a pivotal policy change.
Telangana was the pioneer state to conduct caste surveys, and others have followed suit. The Telangana conducted a massive Social, Economic, and Caste Survey. Which was conducted by the state and determined that more than 56% of its population is comprised of Backward Castes. Telangana used these results to suggest more reservations for OBCs in education, employment, and politics. Telangana’s bold action has been celebrated as a model of empowering marginalized groups.
The supporters assert that the they will open socio-economic inequality information and allow for representation in a justice-friendly manner. Precision in data can render reservation policy rational and hold systemic imbalances. But critics raise an alarm about probable misuses of data and threatening fissures in society.
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The caste census is a titanic step towards good governance and social justice. Although Congress efforts and Telangana initiative have played a turning point role in giving it new life. Its enforcement should be conducted with meticulous planning and transparency so that desired dividends accrue to all segments. In the times to come in India, It is a matter of national concern.