As the Modi govt approves caste census, experts weigh its potential impact on equity, welfare, and politics.
New Delhi, May 1: In a move that could redefine India’s socio-political landscape, the Narendra Modi-led government has approved the inclusion of caste enumeration in the upcoming national Census.
The decision, announced by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw following a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs (CCPA), marks the first time since Independence that caste data will be formally recorded through the Census process.
The announcement arrives amid rising political debate over the role of caste data in shaping welfare schemes, electoral strategies, and governance policies.
Speaking at a press briefing, Vaishnaw characterized the decision as a “corrective step” aimed at bringing transparency and legitimacy to a process that has so far been handled inconsistently by various state governments.
“Several states have attempted caste surveys in recent years, but most were politically driven and lacked transparency,” Vaishnaw said.
“To ensure social harmony and prevent the misuse of such data, the enumeration must be handled through an official and accountable mechanism like the Census.”
“To ensure social harmony and prevent the misuse of such data, the enumeration must be handled through an official and accountable mechanism like the Census.”
The move directly challenges the Congress party and its INDIA bloc partners, who have long demanded a caste-based Census and accused the BJP of stonewalling the issue.
Rahul Gandhi, in particular, had made caste census a central plank of his campaign messaging, criticizing the BJP for maintaining what he called a “conspiratorial silence.”
However, with the central government now taking the lead, political analysts believe this decision may rob the opposition of a key electoral issue—especially ahead of the crucial Bihar Assembly elections, where caste dynamics play a decisive role.
The RJD-Congress alliance in Bihar had planned to make caste census a major poll issue, but the Modi government’s latest move could weaken that narrative.
Tracing the timeline of missed opportunities, Vaishnaw recalled that in 2010, then-Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh had promised to consider caste enumeration.
Though a Group of Ministers was formed and discussions held, the UPA government ultimately did not proceed with a caste census, opting instead for the Socio Economic and Caste Census (SECC), which failed to produce reliable or actionable data due to design flaws and lack of official status.
By officially endorsing caste enumeration through the formal Census, the Modi government positions itself as both responsive and reform-oriented.
The decision not only challenges opposition parties on their own turf but also aligns with the government’s broader vision of inclusive and data-driven policymaking.
The government also cited its successful implementation of the 10% reservation for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) in the general category as proof of its ability to manage socially sensitive policies without provoking unrest.
“The EWS quota was implemented smoothly, and this shows our government’s capability to enact reforms while preserving social harmony,” Vaishnaw added.
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With preparations now underway for the Census rollout, political observers say this bold step could shift electoral narratives leading into the 2025 general elections and beyond.
The move is widely seen as not just an administrative measure, but a strategic repositioning that could reshape India’s approach to caste, equity, and governance. (Edited)
