Table of Contents
| Heading |
|---|
| 1. Introduction |
| 2. Historical Perspective |
| 3. The Recent Caste Survey |
| 4. Political Dynamics |
| 5. Government’s Stand |
| 6. UPA’s Perspective |
| 7. Socio-Economic and Caste Census Data |
| 8. Conclusion |
| 9. FAQs |
1. Introduction
The release of the Bihar caste survey data has once again brought the complex issue of caste demographics to the forefront. In this article, we will delve into the historical context of caste surveys in India, the recent Bihar caste survey, the political dynamics surrounding caste census demands, and the government’s stance on this crucial matter.
2. Historical Perspective
Census data collection in independent India has included information on Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes from 1951 to 2011. However, before 1931, caste data was collected in every Census. A noteworthy deviation occurred in 1941 when caste-based data was collected but not published due to the immense cost and the backdrop of World War II.
3. The Recent Caste Survey
The Bihar government’s caste survey revealed that Other Backward Classes (OBCs) and Extremely Backward Classes (EBCs) make up over 63% of Bihar’s population. This survey not only considered caste but also economic status, aiming to inform policies for the development of all social classes.
4. Political Dynamics
The demand for a caste census has been recurrent, with debates and questions raised in Parliament prior to every Census. Typically, demands come from OBC and deprived sections, while upper-caste sections oppose the idea. In recent times, opposition parties have pushed for a caste census, aligning with the slogan of “social justice.”
5. Government’s Stand
The government’s stance on caste census has varied over the years. In 2021, Union Minister Nityanand Rai stated that the government decided not to enumerate caste-wise populations other than SCs and STs. However, in 2018, there were indications of collecting OBC data for Census 2021.
6. UPA’s Perspective
In 2010, then Law Minister Veerappa Moily called for the collection of caste/community data in Census 2011. Home Minister P Chidambaram highlighted the complexities involved, such as differences in state-specific OBC lists and classifications for converted Scheduled Castes.
7. Socio-Economic and Caste Census Data
The Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC), conducted at a significant cost, excluded caste data and was finalized and published in 2016. This data has remained separate from traditional Census data.
8. Conclusion
The issue of caste census in India has a long and convoluted history. While demands for it persist, the government’s stance has been inconsistent. The recent Bihar caste survey data underscores the importance of considering caste alongside economic status in policy-making for societal development.
9. FAQs
Q1: Why is the caste census important?
A1: The caste census helps in understanding the social and economic demographics of different caste groups, aiding targeted policy formulation for marginalized communities.
Q2: What are OBCs and EBCs?
A2: OBCs (Other Backward Classes) and EBCs (Extremely Backward Classes) are categories used to classify socially and educationally disadvantaged groups in India.
Q3: Why has there been opposition to the caste census?
A3: Opposition often arises from upper-caste groups who may fear potential changes in reservation policies and political dynamics.
Q4: What was the outcome of the recent Bihar caste survey?
A4: The survey revealed that OBCs and EBCs constitute more than 63% of Bihar’s population.
Q5: Has there been any progress in conducting a nationwide caste census?
A5: While demands persist, the government’s official stance has been inconsistent, leading to uncertainty about the future of a nationwide caste census.
In conclusion, the issue of caste census in India remains a complex and politically charged topic, with various stakeholders having differing perspectives on its necessity and implications. The recent Bihar survey has reignited the debate, highlighting the importance of understanding caste dynamics in shaping policies for a diverse and stratified society like India.
