In a significant move, Rahul Gandhi, a prominent Congress leader, has committed to conducting a caste census should the Indian National Development Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) secure victory in the upcoming general elections. This promise follows his recent advocacy for a caste census and reservation for Other Backward Classes (OBCs) within the women’s reservation bill.
The Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, an approved Constitution amendment bill, seeks to grant one-third reservation for women in legislative bodies. However, a provision delaying its implementation until the completion of the 2021 decennial census and delimitation exercise has triggered debates.
Gandhi’s call for a caste census emphasizes the importance of data inequitable power distribution. He urged the government to release the findings of the 2011 socioeconomic caste census, conducted during the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) era.
Rahul Gandhi made a resolute commitment: “Once in power, we will conduct the caste census, providing crucial insights into OBCs, SCs, and STs.”
Gandhi’s proposal, while sparking debates, underscores the need for comprehensive data to ensure equitable representation. As the nation anticipates the general elections, the fate of this proposal remains a matter of keen interest.
