Centre Includes Caste Census in Next Population Survey: A Historic Policy Shift

In a landmark decision, the Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs (CCPA) has approved the inclusion of caste-based enumeration in the upcoming decadal census, marking a significant policy development. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced on Wednesday that the move reflects the Modi government's commitment to transparency, social equity, and inclusive governance.

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has made a big statement on the issue of caste census.(PTI FILE)

“This decision, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, underscores the government's resolve to serve societal interests through accurate data collection,” said Vaishnaw, following the CCPA meeting.

Political Significance and Context

The decision carries considerable political weight, especially ahead of the Bihar Assembly elections. The Opposition had been actively demanding a caste census as a tool to challenge the BJP’s broad coalition of Hindu voters. By incorporating caste enumeration into the national census, the Centre aims to address those demands and counterbalance recent state-led efforts in Bihar, where a state caste survey revealed that backward communities constitute nearly two-thirds of the population.

The BJP’s Bihar allies – Janata Dal (United), Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas), and Rashtriya Lok Samta Party – welcomed the move, calling it a “historic” and necessary step toward equitable development.

Call for Transparency in Data Collection

Vaishnaw criticized state-level caste surveys, claiming they were politically motivated and lacked transparency. He emphasized that including caste enumeration in the national census would bring clarity and consistency, avoiding social unrest caused by fragmented and politicized data.

“To maintain social harmony, caste data should be collected systematically and transparently through the national census, rather than ad hoc state surveys,” he stated.

Political Reactions and Endorsements

The Janata Dal (United) working president Sanjay Jha praised the decision, highlighting Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's role in conducting a transparent caste census at the state level. Jha emphasized the importance of accurate caste data in addressing socio-economic inequalities and creating effective welfare policies.

He also criticized the Congress party for discontinuing caste enumeration after India’s independence and for failing to release caste data collected during the 2011 Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC) under the UPA government due to discrepancies.

Supporting the move, LJP (RV) chief and Union Minister Chirag Paswan said the decision fulfills a long-standing demand of his party and dispels misconceptions about his position on the issue. “This step will pave the way for inclusive development and give voice to the underrepresented,” Paswan said.

RLSP leader Upendra Kushwaha echoed this sentiment, calling the move a milestone for the development of oppressed and marginalised sections of society.

Support from National Leaders

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu commended the decision as a reflection of Prime Minister Modi’s “deep commitment to inclusive governance.” He stated that caste-based data would lead to better-targeted, data-driven policymaking.

Anupriya Patel, Union Minister and Apna Dal leader, hailed the announcement as a long-overdue measure. She pointed out that no caste census had been conducted since 1931, criticizing previous Congress-led governments for failing to act on the issue. She added, “Unlike the Congress-led INDI alliance, we translate social justice into concrete policy action.”

Conclusion

The Centre’s decision to include caste enumeration in the upcoming census represents a transformative moment in India’s socio-political landscape. By prioritizing transparency and data accuracy, the government aims to create a foundation for inclusive development and targeted welfare programs. This bold step not only addresses long-standing demands across the political spectrum but also signals a shift toward more evidence-based governance in the pursuit of social justice.

(With inputs from Hindustan Times)