The Indian government’s decision to conduct a caste census as part of the upcoming decadal census has sparked debate over its potential impact. The move comes after years of opposition from Congress party, with some states having already conducted similar exercises.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi had previously proposed four categories of marginalized groups: youth, women, the poor, and farmers. Caste enumeration is expected to have significant implications for upcoming polls in Bihar, with many parties viewing it as a crucial issue.
Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the decision would “strengthen the social and economic structure of our society.” However, experts caution that the exercise may lead to emergence of new identities and aspirations among marginalized groups.
Political scientist Badri Narayan stated that caste enumeration could coalesce into larger groups, opening avenues for new political negotiations. He noted, however, that it would also help identify both dominant and dominated castes, potentially addressing concerns over welfare for all sections of society.
The government aims to address social divisions by targeting welfare initiatives towards the Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) among the general category. The move has been seen as a calculated risk by experts, with its long-term consequences yet to be determined.
The proposed census is expected to have far-reaching implications for Indian politics, particularly in Bihar, where it may determine the course of future polls.
Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/caste-count-seen-as-a-strategic-move-by-government-to-weaken-opposition-plank/article69510422.ece