Synopsis
In a significant move, the Central government has decided to conduct a caste census alongside the national census. This decision is expected to shift political dynamics and resonate with diverse societal groups, particularly ahead of the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections.Key Takeaways
- Caste census will be conducted with the national census.
- Decision made by the Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs.
- Impacts political dynamics ahead of Bihar elections.
- Response to demands for fair representation in governance.
- Strategic move to counter opposition narratives.
New Delhi, April 30 (NationPress) The Central government has declared that a caste census will be executed alongside the upcoming national population census, marking a significant initiative undertaken at the national level.
This pivotal decision emerged from a high-level session of the Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs (CCPA), which was led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
During a press briefing, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated, “The Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs has today resolved to incorporate caste enumeration within the impending census.”
This action is crucial as the caste census has been a key electoral promise of the Congress-led INDIA Bloc, resonating deeply with the general populace.
The unexpected decision by the Central government is anticipated to reshape social dynamics and significantly affect public opinion, as noted by political analysts.
Until now, the administration has hesitated to embark on such an initiative, citing concerns over potential societal divisions. However, the Congress party and its allies, including the RJD, have strongly pushed for this, arguing that all societal segments deserve representation in governance proportional to their population.
By endorsing the caste census, the BJP-led government has strategically shifted the narrative, undermining the Congress's most compelling argument against the Centre.
This decision is particularly timely as it comes just before the Assembly elections in Bihar later this year, where caste dynamics play a critical role.
Political parties, from the Congress to regional leaders like the RJD and the ruling JD-U, heavily depend on the caste framework to gain authority in the state.
By merging the caste census with the national census, the BJP positions itself advantageously in persuading the public of its commitment to social justice under the Modi administration, while also aiming to 'expose' the Congress and others as exploiting the issue for political leverage.
