The opposition is strongly focusing on the issue of caste census ahead of the upcoming state assembly elections. During the Lok Sabha elections, the opposition had raised the issue of caste census with great emphasis, and now they are preparing to make it a key topic for the state assembly elections.

Rahul Gandhi’s Commitment:
Congress MP Rahul Gandhi has stated that the caste census will be carried out under all circumstances. He insists on the necessity of this census to ensure fair representation.

Tejashwi Yadav’s Criticism:
In Bihar, opposition leader and former Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav has criticized the central government for not conducting the caste-based census. He pointed out that while the NDA government failed to conduct the 2021 census, Bihar managed to carry out a caste-based count and increase reservations within just 17 months. Yadav highlighted that when Laloo Prasad Yadav was the president of the Janata Dal, the party had advocated for a caste-based census, which was initially planned but later reversed by the NDA government led by the BJP.

Kumari Selja’s Assurance:
Congress leader Kumari Selja has promised that if the Congress wins the Haryana assembly elections, they will conduct a caste-based census. She claimed that 74% of the country’s population supports the demand for a caste census and criticized the BJP for opposing it.

BJP’s Response:
Senior BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi criticized Rahul Gandhi’s focus on caste census. He accused Gandhi of making foolish statements and becoming a liability for his party. Naqvi suggested that Gandhi’s focus on such issues shows his lack of seriousness.

What is Caste Census?
A caste census is a process where the population of a country or region is counted based on different castes. It is part of a socio-economic survey that collects data on various aspects like caste, religion, gender, education, and occupation. The data from a caste census helps in assessing the socio-economic status of different castes and in formulating policies for them. In India, caste census data is used to determine the proportion of reservations in government jobs and educational institutions. The debate on caste census continues, with some viewing it as essential for social justice, while others believe it could promote casteism.