Caste Census Debate
In the realm of Indian politics, the demand for a caste census has taken center stage, with Rahul Gandhi leading the charge. This move, seemingly advocating for Backward Castes, is raising questions about its true intent – is it a genuine concern for social justice or a strategic ploy to fracture the ‘Hindu’ vote and weaken the BJP’s stronghold?
Caste Census: A Political Chessboard
Rahul Gandhi, along with his Hindi heartland allies, has been fervently advocating for a caste census. This demand is aimed at rekindling ‘Mandal politics,’ a strategy to bring various castes back into their political fold.
BJP’s Unified Welfare Approach
In contrast, the BJP has pursued a path of uniting all castes under the banner of welfare schemes and Hindutva ideology. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has accused some of trying to divide the country along caste lines.
Historical Perspective
Congress’ Shifting Stance
The Congress party’s position on a caste census has fluctuated over the years. Leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru were against it, and even Indira and Rajiv Gandhi sidelined the Mandal Commission report.
RJD’s Push for Caste Census in 2011
Surprisingly, it was Congress allies like the RJD who pushed for it in 2011, reversing the Congress’s long-standing position. However, internal conflicts within the party hindered progress.
Practical Challenges
Technical Flaws in 2011 Census
The 2011 caste census, though finally conducted, was marred by technical flaws and never made public, raising questions about the efficacy of such an endeavor.
Caste Census in Karnataka.
In Karnataka, the state government commissioned a caste census in 2015, yet the report remains unreleased, signaling potential reservations about its implications.
Current Government Initiatives
Welfare Benefits for All
The Modi government’s approach has been to roll out social welfare benefits for all, with a focus on the upliftment of Backward groups, including OBCs, who have arguably benefited the most from these initiatives.
Sub-Categorization of OBCs
A report by the Rohini Commission, aimed at sub-categorizing OBCs, awaits government action. If presented in the Winter Session of Parliament, it could serve as a countermeasure to the ongoing debate.
Conclusion
The demand for a caste census in India is not merely a straightforward call for social justice. It’s a complex issue intertwined with political strategies and historical positions. While some argue for its necessity to address deep-seated inequalities, others view it as a tool for political maneuvering. As India grapples with this issue, it’s essential to strike a balance between these perspectives to ensure the welfare of all its citizens.
Photograph: Kind Courtesy of Google
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