Why in news
The Congress government in Telangana launched a caste survey as part of its 2023 election promise to potentially increase Backward Classes (BCs) reservation.
The move comes amid rising calls for caste-based surveys across India, with states like Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu supporting it
However, the BJP is hesitant, with no clear plan to release caste data from the 2011 Socio-Economic and Caste Census.
Ongoing Debate
Surveys may lead to higher reservation for OBCs, SCs, and STs, but legal and political hurdles remain.
Disagreement on whether states or the Centre should conduct surveys.
Courts stress that increased reservation requires data showing inadequate representation, not just caste numbers.
The Supreme Court maintains a 50% reservation cap, and data alone won't trigger quota increases.
Creamy Layer Issue: Debate on limiting reservation benefits to more disadvantaged sections, rather than the privileged within BCs.
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