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4mo ago

India to Include Caste Enumeration in Next Census Following Decades of Debate

The Union government’s decision marks a significant policy shift, sparking political competition and demands for clarity on execution.

In 2011, the government conducted the Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC), which aimed to gather broader caste data. However, the results were never formally released due to questions surrounding data accuracy and consistency. (Pic used for representaiton)
As the local bodies have been functioning without elected representatives for over three years, aspirants and political parties were expecting announcement of civic polls soon. (REPRESENTATIVE PHOTO)
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Overview

  • The Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs has approved the inclusion of caste enumeration in the upcoming national census, a first since 1931 for comprehensive caste data.
  • Union ministers describe the move as a commitment to social equality, while opposition parties claim credit for advocating the caste census for decades.
  • Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and others demand a clear timeline, budget, and transparency for the exercise, criticizing the lack of immediate implementation details.
  • Analysts interpret the decision as a strategic move by the BJP ahead of critical state elections, particularly in caste-sensitive regions like Bihar.
  • Updated caste data is expected to influence reservation policies, welfare schemes, and constituency delimitation, reshaping India’s socio-political landscape.