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First Caste Census Since Independence Triggers Political Row
For the first time since independence, India's Census will include caste enumeration, a move that has sparked intense political debate. The Times Now report says proponents argue it is essential for social…
The Story in Brief
For the first time since independence, India's Census will include caste enumeration, a move that has sparked intense political debate. The Times Now report says proponents argue it is essential for social justice, accurate representation and welfare policy, while critics claim it could become a tool for vote-bank politics.
The format for collecting caste data has become a flashpoint, with parties accusing each other of using the exercise to consolidate caste-based voting blocs. The government has not yet clarified whether the data will be used to revise reservation quotas or for purely policy purposes.
The Indian Opinion
Two narratives dominate: one claims a caste census is the only way to measure real deprivation and fix reservation caps; the other calls it a cynical ploy to polarise voters ahead of elections. Both are partly right. India badly needs fresh socio-economic data, but the political climate around caste makes it nearly impossible to conduct such an exercise without suspicion. The real test will be whether the government makes the raw data public and commits to using it for evidence-based policy, not just election rhetoric. If the numbers are kept secret or released selectively, the trust will be lost regardless of intent.
Source: timesnownews.com
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