The Centre has decided to include caste enumeration in the next national Census, reversing the BJP’s earlier stance.
PM Modi had previously criticized the Congress’s call for a caste census, calling it “urban Naxal” thinking.
BJP’s earlier promises to change the Constitution raised concerns among OBC and Dalit groups about losing caste-based reservations.
In past elections, such as Bihar 2015, BJP faced backlash over caste issues, while in 2024 it won Maharashtra and Haryana emphasizing Hindu unity.
The BJP now likely senses rising support for a caste census, especially in Bihar where elections are due.
Both BJP and Opposition parties are now trying to claim credit for supporting social justice.
Historically, national parties have been hesitant or hostile towards caste-based demands.
Regional subaltern parties gained ground in UP and Bihar in the 1990s by mobilizing OBC and Dalit groups.
BJP has since become more inclusive of OBCs, aiding its electoral success from 2014 onwards.
The Congress have taken a new stance by pushing for caste justice, a caste census, removal of the 50% reservation cap, and extending reservation to private institutions.
The caste count could reshape political and social realities, as it did during colonial times.
A caste census won’t directly lead to proportional reservations, as per Article 16(4) of the Constitution.
It should be used to better target affirmative action, not to deepen caste divisions.
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