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India’s Long-Awaited Census Set to Begin, Likely to Wrap Up by 2026

May 1, 2025, 5:23 am

India’s long-pending Census 2021 is expected to begin in the coming months, with the government aiming to complete the massive population-counting exercise by the end of 2026, according to sources familiar with the matter.

Why the Delay?

The census, originally scheduled for 2020-21, was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. More recently, debates around whether to include caste-based data further stalled the process.

An official, who chose to remain anonymous, said:

“It may begin soon as whether to include or not the caste enumeration was only delaying the entire exercise.”

India’s First Digital Census

The upcoming census will be India’s first-ever digital census, making use of a dedicated mobile app for data collection and a census portal for managing operations and monitoring progress.

Increased Questions, Bigger Budget

Including caste data means the number of questions during the house listing may increase from 31 to 32. Initially, the government allocated ₹8,754.23 crore for the census and ₹3,941.35 crore for updating the National Population Register (NPR) — totaling around ₹12,000 crore.

Budget Cuts Explained

In March 2025, the Union Home Ministry informed a parliamentary panel that most preparatory activities are complete, and the lower allocation of ₹574 crore (down from ₹1,309 crore the previous year) is due to the pending start of field operations.

“As and when the census exercise is undertaken, additional funds will be sought as per the year-wise requirement,” the ministry clarified.

Historic & Policy Importance

India has conducted a census every 10 years since 1881. The data is vital for:

Policy-making & development planning
Demarcating electoral constituencies
Determining state-wise representation in Parliament

What’s Next?

While no official start date has been announced, Union Home Minister Amit Shah has reiterated that the government is committed to completing the exercise. Once launched, the census is expected to offer updated insights into India’s demographic and socioeconomic landscape.

Centre Confirms Caste Census to Be Included in Upcoming National Census

April 30, 2025, 5:15 pm

The Union government on Wednesday made it official that caste census will be included in the coming National Census. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, as per an ANI report, affirmed that the Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs has approved the inclusion of caste-based data in the all-India census.

Modi Government Takes a Step Towards Transparency

Talking to the media, Vaishnaw stated, “Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs has decided today that Caste enumeration should be included in the forthcoming census.” He did not give a date as to when the census would begin.

#WATCH | Delhi | “Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs has decided today that Caste enumeration should be included in the forthcoming census,” says Union Minister Ashiwini Vaishnaw on Union Cabinet decisions. pic.twitter.com/0FtK0lg9q7

— ANI (@ANI) April 30, 2025

Vaishnaw made it clear that the census is purely within the purview of the Centre. He lashed out at some opposition-governed states for organizing separate caste surveys and stated these exercises were non-transparent.

“Some states have conducted surveys to enumerate castes. While some states have done this well, some others conducted such surveys only from a political angle in a non-transparent way. Such surveys created doubts in society. To ensure that our social fabric is not disturbed by politics, caste enumeration should be included in the census instead of surveys,” Vaishnaw said.

Vaishnaw Alleges Congress of Politicizing Caste Statistics

The Union Minister, meanwhile, made a stinging criticism of the Congress party and its constituents in the INDI alliance, alleging that they have consistently politicised the census process.

“Congress governments have always opposed the caste census. In 2010, the late Dr Manmohan Singh said that the matter of caste census should be considered in the Cabinet. A group of ministers was formed to consider this subject,” he observed.

He further said, “All the political parties have suggested a caste enumeration. Despite this, the Congress government had resolved to conduct a caste survey or a caste census. Congress and its allies in the INDI coalition are well known to have employed the caste enumeration purely as a political weapon.”

The decennial population census, initially planned for 2021, was delayed because of the COVID-19 pandemic and logistical issues. With the Centre’s renewed initiative, caste counting will now, therefore, become a formal and integral component of the national enumeration, aiming to promote transparency and, moreover, foster social harmony..

PM Modi Flies From Deoghar in IAF Plane After Snag

November 15, 2024, 6:06 pm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s aircraft encountered a technical snag at Deoghar, Jharkhand, this afternoon. Following the issue, he departed for Delhi on an Indian Air Force plane dispatched from New Delhi, after a delay of over two hours. According to sources, the fault was detected while the Prime Minister was aboard the plane, preparing for takeoff. The aircraft was subsequently grounded at Deoghar, with attempts made to fix the issue before the arrival of the IAF plane.

Earlier that day, PM Modi addressed a rally in Bihar’s Jamui district, approximately 80 km from Deoghar, commemorating the 150th birth anniversary of tribal leader Birsa Munda, celebrated as ‘Janjatiya Gaurav Divas’.

Simultaneously, in Godda district, Jharkhand, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s helicopter was grounded for about 45 minutes, awaiting air traffic control clearance. The Congress party alleged that this delay was a deliberate attempt to disrupt Mr. Gandhi’s campaign schedule, suggesting that priority was given to the Prime Minister’s movements. The helicopter was eventually permitted to take off after the delay.

During his rally, PM Modi criticised the Congress and Rahul Gandhi, reiterating his “shehzada” (prince) remark. He accused Mr. Gandhi of conspiring to abolish reservations for Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC), aiming to weaken these communities. The Prime Minister referenced past statements by Mr. Gandhi’s father, alleging that he had equated reservations to slavery and had campaigned against them.

PM Modi also accused the ruling Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), allied with the Congress, of facilitating infiltrators to become permanent residents of Jharkhand, a claim echoed by other BJP leaders, including Home Minister Amit Shah.

In contrast, at his rally in Godda, Rahul Gandhi advocated for a nationwide caste census, asserting that it would transform India. He pledged to dismantle the 50% reservation cap, challenging PM Modi to oppose the move.

Also read: EC Officials Check Amit Shah’s Bags During His Maharashtra Visit| Video

The second phase of polling for the 81-member Jharkhand Assembly is scheduled for November 20, with vote counting set for November 23.

Maharashtra Polls: MVA Releases Manifesto, Promises Caste Census and Monthly Aid for Women

November 10, 2024, 2:09 pm

The Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition—comprising Congress, Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT), and Sharad Pawar-led Nationalist Congress Party (SCP)—unveiled its manifesto for the Maharashtra Assembly elections on Sunday, with Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge leading the launch event in Mumbai. The manifesto outlines ‘five guarantees’ aimed at social and economic welfare, including a commitment to conducting a caste-based census in Maharashtra and removing the 50% cap on reservations.

Key Promises: Mahalaxmi Scheme and Farm Support

The MVA has pledged financial support under the ‘Mahalaxmi Scheme,’ promising a monthly Rs 3000 aid for women and free bus rides for women across the state. Additionally, the opposition alliance vowed to provide a Rs 25 lakh health cover to farmers and waive off farm loans. As an incentive for timely loan repayment, farmers would receive Rs 50,000.

Kharge highlighted these guarantees as measures for comprehensive welfare, stating, “Our five guarantees will benefit all in Maharashtra, including Rs 3000 per month for women and free bus services.” The MVA estimates that each family would receive an annual aid of about Rs 3 lakh under their schemes.

Intensifying Electoral Battle

With Maharashtra’s 288-seat Assembly polls scheduled for November 20 and counting on November 23, the political contest between the MVA and the ruling Mahayuti alliance—consisting of BJP, Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, and Ajit Pawar-led NCP—heats up. The BJP also released its manifesto earlier in the day, presenting 25 commitments for Maharashtra if re-elected.

Rahul Gandhi: ‘Will Demolish 50% Reservation Barrier with Caste Census’

November 5, 2024, 10:10 pm

Leader of opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, reiterated on Tuesday his “full commitment” to implementing a caste census in Telangana, aiming to make the state a model for such initiatives across India.

Referring to caste discrimination in India as “unique” and among the worst globally, the former Congress chief declared his intention to “demolish the artificial barrier of 50 per cent reservations in the country.”

“Caste census is the first process to be taken up to assess the extent and nature of discrimination. So, I am fully committed to ensuring not only the caste census happens in Telangana, but that Telangana becomes a model for the caste census in the country,” Gandhi stated, as reported by PTI.

Gandhi acknowledged that the caste survey conducted by the state government might have some shortcomings but assured that these issues would be resolved.

Taking a jab at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he remarked, “Why is the PM scared of asking how many Dalits, OBCs, Adivasis are there in corporates, judiciary, media?”

Gandhi also reaffirmed his commitment in Parliament on behalf of the Congress party to initiate a national caste census.

This stance is not new for the Congress MP, who previously voiced his support for the caste census in August, when he posted on X, “Modiji, if you are thinking of stopping the caste census, you are dreaming – no power can stop it now!”

Also read: Elon Musk Shakes Up X: Election-Themed ‘Like’ Button Amid U.S. Presidential Race| WATCH

Caste Census Promise In its 2024 Lok Sabha elections manifesto, the Congress party pledged to conduct a caste census if it assumes power at the Centre. The party also committed to carrying out a nationwide socio-economic and caste census to account for various castes, sub-castes, and their socio-economic conditions. Furthermore, the Congress intends to pass a constitutional amendment to raise the 50 per cent cap on reservations for SC, ST, and OBC categories.

Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah to Discuss Caste Census Implementation in Cabinet Meeting

October 4, 2024, 7:43 pm

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced on Friday that a decision regarding the implementation of the caste census report will be made during the upcoming cabinet meeting. The CM made this statement while addressing the media at the Ginigera Air Strip in Koppal, in response to MLA Basavaraj Rayareddy’s remarks on integrating the caste census into policymaking.

Discussion with Backward Classes Minister Planned

Siddaramaiah indicated plans to consult with the Minister of Backward Classes next week to discuss the caste census further. The report, submitted by the Chairman of the Commission for Backward Classes, Jayaprakash Hegde, was presented to the government in February this year. The demand for a nationwide caste census has emerged as a significant agenda for Congress, with other parties in the INDIA bloc also advocating for its implementation.

Political Reactions and Ongoing Demands

Earlier in June, BJP MP Sudhanshu Trivedi criticized the Karnataka government for not releasing the data from the caste census, asserting that while the survey had been conducted, the results were being withheld. He quoted Karnataka’s Deputy Chief Minister, who reportedly warned of consequences if the data were disclosed.

Despite criticism, Congress leaders, including Jairam Ramesh, have emphasized the importance of conducting a caste-based census to ensure social empowerment and uphold constitutional provisions. Ramesh questioned whether demanding a caste census equated to casteism, asserting that the caste system has been ingrained in Indian society for centuries and cannot be ignored.

Opposition parties, including Congress, RJD, and NCP, continue to advocate for a nationwide caste census, citing the necessity for accurate data on the population of various caste groups to inform policy decisions.

Caste Census Now Unstopable Idea, Anything Less Than it Unacceptable, says Rahul Gandhi

September 10, 2024, 11:41 am

Newly appointed Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Monday said the “Caste census” is now an unstoppable idea and anything less than it, along with an economic and institutional survey is unacceptable.

During his interaction at the Georgetown University, Rahul Gandhi said that the “caste census” is now an “unstoppable idea”.

“The critical question of whether 90 per cent of our population is meaningfully represented in India’s institutional structure – economy, government, education – demands an answer. At its core, this is an issue of fairness and justice.

“Anything less than a comprehensive caste census, along with an economic and institutional survey is unacceptable,” the Congress leader said.

He further said that there’s an elephant in the room and when we talk about the capture of institutions, businesses, and the media, the elephant in the room is that 90 per cent of India—OBCs, Dalits, Adivasis—aren’t even part of the game and that’s really the elephant in the room.

He explained, “The Caste Census is a simple exercise, but it’s more than just a census. It’s one of three ideas. It’s a simple way of saying: we got independence in 1947, it’s been a while now, let’s see how the lower castes, backward castes, and Dalits have integrated into the system. What is their actual participation?”

He mentioned that frankly, “we already have the data, and I can tell you, out of the top ten businesses in India, almost none are owned by the 90 per cent of the population”.

“I can tell you that in the highest courts of the country, there is almost no participation from this 90 per cent. In the national media—anchors and journalists—there is zero participation from lower castes, OBCs, Dalits, and Adivasis. People know this; it’s not a secret. The large masses of people understand this. They ask, ‘Where is our participation in India?’ The idea of the Caste Census is simple. We haven’t taken any specific policy position; we’re just saying we want to understand. We want a snapshot to see where we are at—what is the participation level of lower castes, Dalits, OBCs, and the poor among the general castes? That’s what the Caste Census is really about,” he said.

He also said that there are two components, one is a socio-economic survey.

“We want to understand the socio-economic position of these castes. The third component, which I think is very important, is that we also want to understand and examine India’s institutions—media, healthcare, education—the ownership, the structure that delivers these services, and India’s participation in these institutions. These are an institutional survey, a socio-economic survey, and a census” he added.

Rahul Gandhi is currently in on US trip and henwill returning to India on September 12 or 13.

Survey On Caste-Census

September 4, 2024, 4:11 am

A recent The Daily Guardian survey conducted on September 3, 2024, reveals mixed opinions on the caste census. Out of 668 respondents, a significant 67% believe a caste census should be conducted, while 33% oppose it. The survey also explored public
perception of the RSS’s stance on the issue. About 30% view it as beneficial for the BJP, while 28% see it as advantageous for the backward classes. Additionally, 19% think the
RSS’s statement is a result of pressure from the opposition, and 18% remain undecided. When asked whether the caste census is necessary for the people or politics, 51% of respondents believe it serves political interests, whereas 48% see it as a necessity for the public.

67% Survey reveals that there Should be a caste census

Here’s the Survey:

Q-1 Should there be a caste census or not? What is your opinion?

Q-2 How do you view the statement by RSS on the caste census?

Q-3 Is the caste census necessary for the people or for politics?

Q-4 Will the caste census benefit the lower classes?

RJD Stages State-Wide Sit-In to Demand Caste Census and Inclusion of Reservation in Ninth Schedule

September 1, 2024, 2:59 pm

The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) held a state-wide one-day sit-in protest, demanding a nationwide caste census and the inclusion of a 65% reservation increase in Bihar in the Ninth Schedule of the Constitution.

Tejashwi Yadav, the Leader of the Opposition in the Bihar Legislative Assembly, joined the protest at the party office on Beerchand Patel Path. Similar protests were organized across various districts, with visuals from Patna showing large gatherings of party officials and supporters at the demonstration site.

Speaking to the media, Tejashwi Yadav questioned the timing of the increased reservation limit, stating, “Why was the reservation limit increased only during our 17-month tenure in power? Why didn’t this happen during the NDA’s tenure? They are merely performing theatrics. Why hasn’t this reservation been included in the Ninth Schedule? Those who are now making statements were the same ones who stood with me, announcing the reservation.”

Yadav also highlighted the achievements of the RJD-JDU government, mentioning, “During that time, 5 lakh jobs were created, and both a sports policy and an education policy were established. The NDA, on the other hand, is negative. If you say anything positive, they are bound to get offended.”

Further criticizing the government’s stance on Bihar’s special status, Yadav alleged that members of the Janata Dal (United) were pleased when Bihar was denied special state status. He challenged JDU leaders to clarify their position on including the reservation in the Ninth Schedule, saying, “If they are in power, it is their responsibility. Why shouldn’t Bihar be given special state status? We challenge the JDU leaders to declare whether they support including the reservation in the Ninth Schedule or not.”

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) criticized the RJD’s protest, accusing the party of inaction on reservation issues while in power. Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Kumar Jha countered by stating, “Chief Minister Nitish Kumar ensured that a caste census took place in Bihar and took all necessary actions. The opposition, when in power, didn’t even provide reservation in Panchayats.”

“Rahul Gandhi shedding crocodile tears over caste census”: Union Minister

August 25, 2024, 4:18 pm

Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan (Lalan) Singh launched a scathing attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, accusing him of “shedding crocodile tears” over the caste census and using misleading slogans to confuse the public. Singh claimed that while Gandhi now emphasizes the need for a caste census, he failed to support such initiatives earlier.

“Rahul Gandhi is suddenly very concerned about the caste census. When Nitish Kumar conducted it in Bihar while we were in the INDIA alliance, we suggested passing a resolution supporting it. However, he did not do so due to pressure from Mamata Banerjee. Today, he sheds crocodile tears. Has he ever praised the census conducted in Bihar? He is only giving slogans to confuse the public,” said Singh.

Rahul Gandhi had earlier reiterated the INDIA alliance’s call for a caste census, stating that 90 percent of the population is being excluded from opportunities despite having the required skills and talent. “That’s why we are demanding a caste census,” he said.

In addition to his remarks on the caste census, Lalan Singh praised the Modi government’s recently approved Unified Pension Scheme (UPS), set to take effect on April 1, 2025. The scheme increases the government’s contribution from 14 percent under the current National Pension System (NPS) to 18.5 percent under UPS. Singh urged Congress-ruled states to replicate this model in their regions.

The caste census and pension scheme debates have become key talking points as political parties prepare for the upcoming elections.

RaGa Renews Call for Caste Census, Criticizes Lack of Representation for Marginalized Communities in Mainstream India

August 25, 2024, 8:35 am

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Saturday reiterated his call for a caste census, highlighting that no women from Dalit, tribal, or OBC communities have been among the winners of the Miss India pageant. He argued that 90% of the population is excluded from the mainstream.

Gandhi also claimed that the leading anchors in the media are not from these communities, emphasizing, “I have checked the list of Miss India, which did not include any Dalit, Adivasi, or OBC women. Some might discuss cricket or Bollywood, but no one highlights the cobbler or plumber. Even top media anchors are not from this 90%. We want to know how many people in institutions, corporations, Bollywood, or Miss India come from this 90%. I’m simply stating that 90% have no ‘bhagidari’ (participation), and this needs to be examined.” He made these remarks during a ‘Samvidhan Samman Sammelan’ in Uttar Pradesh.

Criticizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the central government, Gandhi questioned, “They may say Modiji embraced someone, and we’ve become a superpower. But how can we be a superpower when 90% of people are not participating?”

Gandhi stressed the need for a nationwide caste census, asserting it is not for “political reasons” but to “bring 90% of India’s poor into the mainstream.” He stated, “I am not advocating for a caste census for political gains. For me, it is about integrating 90% of India’s poor farmers into the country’s mainstream. This is my mission, and even if it leads to political losses, I am committed to it.”

The Congress party, in its manifesto, had pledged to conduct a nationwide socio-economic caste census during the Lok Sabha election campaigns.

Gandhi also reaffirmed his commitment to abolishing the 50% cap on reservations set by the Supreme Court, stating, “If anyone believes that the caste census can be stopped or that the 50% cap on reservations will remain, they are mistaken. Neither will the caste census be halted, nor the socio-economic survey, nor the institutional survey. The 50% cap on reservations will not stay… because the people of India have made their decision; this is the mandate from the people. The Prime Minister must accept and implement it. If he does not, then future Prime Ministers will.”

Rahul Gandhi Renews Call For Caste Census, Highlights Exclusion Of 90% Of Population

August 24, 2024, 9:08 pm

Attending the ‘Samvidhan Samman Sammelan’ in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, where thousands of people from across the country converged, the LoP Rahul Gandhi repeated his demand for a caste-based census, stating that 90 percent of the country’s population is outside the system. He went on to add that this huge section has the capabilities and knowledge but is denied entry to the higher institutions of power, and that is why the institutional caste-based census is highly essential.

“BJP leaders are saying that an OBC section will be given after caste census.We want the list of different communities. For us caste census is not just a census, it is a foundation for policy making,” ANI quoted Gandhi as saying.

As he said, it is imperative to not only conduct the census but to understand the enumeration of wealth and representation of OBCs, Dalits, and workers in Bureaucracy, Judiciary, Media and other vital sectors.

Gandhi explained, “The aim of the caste census is not to just know about the count of various castes but their participation in the country’s wealth as well. The vision to know how the wealth is getting distributed in the country among different castes.”.

He added, reflecting on his political journey, “I have been in politics since 2004 and the BJP has been like a guru for me because it has taught me what not to do.

As Opposed To This, Only The Congress Party Has Remained Consistent On The Issue In Its Demands For A Caste Census And Promised It In Its Lok Sabha Election Manifesto Also Which Enumerated A Commitment For Conducting A Nationwide Socio-Economic And Caste Census And At The Same Time, Proposing A Constitutional Amendment that Would Extend Reservation Cap For The SC, ST, And OBC Communities Beyond 50 Per Cent.

Ajit Pawar Advocates for Caste Census to Aid Policy-Making

August 15, 2024, 9:39 pm

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and NCP leader Ajit Pawar has called for a caste census, emphasizing its importance in obtaining accurate population figures for tribals, Scheduled Castes (SCs), Other Backward Classes (OBCs), and minorities. He believes this data will help the Centre formulate more effective policies.

In an exclusive interview with ANI, Pawar stated, “A caste census should be conducted alongside the general census to determine the exact population of various societal groups. This information will aid the government in developing policies, including those related to reservations.”

Pawar also highlighted the ongoing demands for a caste census by Congress, other opposition parties, and the JD-U, a member of the NDA.

Turning to the challenges faced by farmers in Maharashtra, Pawar underscored the government’s commitment to their welfare. He mentioned reforms such as offering loans at zero percent interest, waiving old electricity bills, and providing free electricity.

Pawar recounted the three instances when farmers’ loans were waived by different governments: the national-level waiver during former PM Manmohan Singh’s tenure, the state-level waiver under CM Devendra Fadnavis, and the most recent waiver during Uddhav Thackeray’s term when Pawar himself served as finance minister.

“Currently, the state government offers zero-interest loans to farmers, with the cost split equally between the Central and state governments. We also implemented a policy to waive their electricity bills,” Pawar added.

Pawar further noted his efforts to engage with rural communities before presenting the budget, particularly addressing farmers’ concerns about unpaid electricity bills, which he linked to farmer suicides.

He also discussed the government’s long-term plans to address water scarcity in drought-prone areas like Vidarbha and Marathwada. These plans include lift irrigation schemes, river linking projects, and the construction of barrages to improve water availability.

On city infrastructure issues, Pawar explained the causes behind recent flooding in Pune and Mumbai. He attributed Pune’s flooding to its valley-like terrain and heavy rainfall, which led to the release of 35,000 cusecs of water from nearby dams. In Mumbai, he cited natural challenges such as ocean tides and the city’s location on seven islands, which complicate flood management.

Earlier in July, Maharashtra experienced continuous rainfall, leading to flooding in several cities. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray previously claimed that Pune’s riverfront development project contributed to the flash floods in the city.

‘BJP and Congress have been fiercely anti-OBC,’ says BSP supremo Mayawati

July 31, 2024, 4:27 pm

BSP supremo Mayawati criticised both the BJP and Congress over the caste census row in the ongoing parliament session on Wednesday, stating that both parties have been fiercely anti-OBC.

Taking to the social media platform X, she said, “Yesterday, the ongoing dispute between Congress and BJP, especially on caste and caste census, was a drama and an attempt to deceive the OBC community.”

She further remarked, “The history of both parties regarding their reservation has been fiercely anti-OBC, both openly and behind the scenes. It is not right to trust them.”

In a series of posts highlighting her government’s achievements, she said that the OBC reservation was implemented due to the efforts of the BSP. “The OBC reservation was implemented here due to the efforts of the BSP,” she noted.

Mayawati also supported the national caste census, calling it a special issue of public benefit. “National Caste Census is a special national issue of public interest, towards which the Centre needs to be serious. Crores of poor, backward, and Bahujans also have a right in the development of the country, in fulfilling which the caste census plays an important role,” she said.

Earlier on Wednesday, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi and BJP MP Anurag Thakur entered into a heated argument over the caste census. Anurag Thakur said that those whose caste is unknown are speaking on the issue of the caste census. “Those whose caste is not known, talk about the caste census. I want to remind the speaker that in this house itself, a former prime minister RG-1 (Rajiv Gandhi) had opposed reservation for OBCs,” the BJP MP said.

Reacting to this, the Congress leader remarked that whoever raises the issues of Adivasi, Dalit, and the backward gets abused. Rahul Gandhi replied, “Whoever raises the issues of Adivasi, Dalit, and the backward is abused. I will happily accept these abuses. Anurag Thakur has abused me and insulted me. But I do not want any apology from him.”

The caste census was one of the Congress party’s promises in the 2024 general elections. The Congress party has promised to pass a constitutional amendment to raise the Supreme Court-mandated 50 percent cap on reservations for Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC), as per its poll manifesto. The party also promised to conduct a nationwide socio-economic and caste census to enumerate the castes and sub-castes and their socio-economic conditions.

WATCH | Rahul Gandhi vs Anurag Thakur Over ‘Caste’ Remark: ‘He Insulted Me’

July 30, 2024, 7:17 pm

On Tuesday, Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi accused BJP MP Anurag Thakur of “insulting and abusing” him during a Lok Sabha discussion on the Union Budget. Thakur had made a remark suggesting that those whose caste is unknown are discussing the caste census. Gandhi responded, asserting that anyone who raises issues related to Adivasi, Dalit, or backward communities is subjected to abuse.

In his statement, Thakur said, “Those whose caste is not known talk about the caste census. I want to remind the Speaker that in this House, a former prime minister, RG-1, had opposed reservation for OBCs.”

VIDEO | Monsoon Session: “Those whose caste is not known, talks about the caste census. I want to remind the Speaker that in this House itself, a former prime minister RG-1 had opposed reservation for OBCs,” says BJP MP Anurag Thakur (@ianuragthakur) in Lok Sabha.

“You can… pic.twitter.com/MPaFnDECB8

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) July 30, 2024

Rahul Gandhi, who had previously pledged to implement a nationwide caste census if the INDIA bloc came to power, reaffirmed his commitment. “You can insult me as much as you like, but we will pass the caste census in Parliament,” Gandhi declared.

Later, Thakur clarified that his comment was not directed at any specific individual. “I had said that someone who doesn’t know about caste talks about the census. I did not name anyone,” he explained.

Gandhi responded by accusing Thakur of both abuse and insult, though he emphasized that he does not seek an apology. “Whoever raises the issues of Adivasi, Dalit, and backward communities is abused. I will gladly accept these abuses. Anurag Thakur has abused and insulted me, but I do not want any apology from him,” Gandhi added.

The caste census was a central promise of the Congress party in the 2024 general elections. Rahul Gandhi had described the caste census as an “X-ray of India” prior to the elections. “No one knows the number of backwards, Dalits, and tribals in the country. Those who form the largest segments of the population are uncounted. The BJP government does not want caste data. However, we will get an X-ray of India done to determine the population of various caste groups. The country will change once the caste census is completed,” Gandhi had stated.

The BJP accuses the Congress of attempting to divide the country along caste lines.

Rahul Gandhi Invokes Shahu Maharaj, Ambedkar In Push For Caste Census And Reservation Justice

July 26, 2024, 11:22 pm

Amidst the various caste-related struggles going on in Maharashtra, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi has taken a bold stance on Shahu Maharaj’s historic gazette by reiterating Congress’s demand for caste census, lifting the 50 per cent cap on reservation, and ‘nyay’ for marginalised sections.

By invoking both Shahu Maharaj and Dr. B R Ambedkar, Rahul Gandhi has sent a strong message of himself believing and taking forward Maharashtra Dharma which legends such as Shivaji, Shahu Maharaj, Jyotiba Phule and Dr. Ambedkar set out.

In a post on X, Rahul Gandhi said, “Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj’s contributions towards social justice were well ahead of his time. A pioneer in the fight for social justice in the country, his lifelong work on social reforms has had a great impact on me.

“Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj made education universal by deciding to publish the ‘Revolutionary Gazette’ on this day in 1902. Also, through this, Shahu Maharaj worked to strengthen the weaker sections of society by giving 50 per cent job reservations,” the Congress leader said.

He said that Shahu Maharaj’s support and efforts influenced Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar to include reservations in the Constitution.

“Our demands for a caste census, removal of the 50 per cent cap on reservations, and nyay for the marginalised are inspired by Shahu Maharaj’s revolutionary ideals,” he said.Rahul Gandhi’s statement today shows that Congress as taken a principled stance that will bring a permanent solution to the multiple conflicting demands of various caste groups.
This statement is also a recognition of the fact that Maharashtra, which has not seen a caste census since the 1931 nationwide census, cannot emerge out of this long-standing conflict without a proper caste census that addresses the root of the issue.

Rahul Gandhi Invokes Shahu Maharaj, Ambedkar In Push For Caste Census And Reservation Justice

July 26, 2024, 2:12 pm

New Delhi, July 26: Amidst the various caste-related struggles going on in Maharashtra, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi has taken a bold stance on Shahu Maharaj’s historic gazette by reiterating Congress’s demand for caste census, lifting the 50 per cent cap on reservation, and ‘nyay’ for marginalised sections.

By invoking both Shahu Maharaj and Dr. Ambedkar, Rahul Gandhi has sent a strong message of himself believing and taking forward Maharashtra Dharma which legends such as Shivaji, Shahu Maharaj, Jyotiba Phule and Dr. Ambedkar set out.

He said that Shahu Maharaj’s support and efforts influenced Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar to include reservations in the Constitution.

“Our demands for a caste census, removal of the 50 per cent cap on reservations, and nyay for the marginalised are inspired by Shahu Maharaj’s revolutionary ideals,” he said.

Rahul Gandhi’s statement today shows that Congress as taken a principled stance that will bring a permanent solution to the multiple conflicting demands of various caste groups. This statement is also a recognition of the fact that Maharashtra, which has not seen a caste census since the 1931 nationwide census, cannot emerge out of this long-standing conflict without a proper caste census that addresses the root of the issue.

JD(U) Calls For Review Of Agniveer Scheme And Stresses Caste Census Amid Election Results

June 6, 2024, 4:46 pm

Following the Lok Sabha election results, which left the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) with 240 seats, 32 short of a majority, Nitish Kumar’s Janata Dal (United) [JD(U)], a key BJP ally, has called for a review of the Centre’s Agniveer scheme for defense recruitment. JD(U) spokesperson KC Tyagi highlighted voter dissatisfaction with the scheme, stating, “A section of voters has been upset over the Agniveer scheme. Our party wants those shortcomings questioned by the public to be discussed in detail and removed,” ANI reported.

Tyagi also addressed the party’s stance on the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), emphasizing that JD(U) is not opposed to it. “As the party’s national president, the CM had written to the Law Commission chief about the UCC. We are not against it, but a solution should be found by talking to all stakeholders,” he said.

Furthermore, Tyagi reiterated JD(U)’s support for a caste-based census and demanded special status for Bihar. “No party in the country has said no to caste-based census. Bihar has shown the path. PM, too, didn’t oppose it in the all-party delegation. The caste-based census is the call of the hour. We will pursue it,” he stated.

Tyagi clarified that JD(U)’s support for the BJP is unconditional, but the demand for special status for Bihar remains significant for the party.

The opposition INDIA bloc, in its election promise, condemned the Agniveer scheme and vowed to scrap it if elected. Earlier this month, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi wrote to President Droupadi Murmu urging intervention in the Agnipath scheme to address “discrimination” in benefits provided to the families of deceased soldiers.

The Agnipath scheme recruits youngsters aged 17 and a half to 21 for a four-year term, with an option to retain 25 percent for an additional 15 years. The government, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah, has consistently backed the scheme, highlighting its attractiveness to youth and its potential to provide a long-term job in the armed forces.

General Anil Chauhan, the Chief of Defence Staff, endorsed the scheme, emphasizing its role in nurturing a young and dynamic military profile and contributing to nation-building by cultivating skilled, disciplined, and motivated youth.

On Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and senior BJP leaders convened with National Democratic Alliance (NDA) leaders, marking their first meeting since securing a Lok Sabha majority. The NDA leaders reaffirmed their confidence in Modi, electing him as the alliance’s leader and paving the way for his third consecutive term as prime minister.

With 12 MPs, JD(U) is the second biggest BJP ally after the Telugu Desam Party, which has 16 MPs. During the NDA meeting, Nitish Kumar urged Modi to expedite government formation, while TDP chief Chandrababu Naidu noted that winning three consecutive terms is a remarkable achievement.

Rahul Gandhi Reaffirms His Demand For Caste Census

March 9, 2024, 3:58 pm

Reaffirming his demand for a caste census across the nation, Rahul Gandhi reiterated on Saturday that Congress had committed to fulfilling this promise if elected to power. He described Bihar’s caste census as an ‘X-ray’ for the country, emphasizing its importance in revealing the true socioeconomic conditions of the impoverished.

“Have we ever wondered who the poor are? How many are there and in what condition? Is it not necessary to count all these? The caste census conducted in Bihar revealed that 88 per cent of the poor population comes from Dalit, tribal, backward and minority communities. The figures from Bihar are just a small glimpse of the real picture of the country, we do not even have an idea in what condition the poor population of the country is living.,” Gandhi said in a tweet.

“That is why we are going to take two historic steps – caste counting and economic mapping, based on which we will uproot the reservation limit of 50 per cent. This step will X-ray the country and provide the correct reservation, rights and share to everyone,” the Congress MP stated further.

“This will not only help in making the right policies and plans for the poor but will also help in rescuing them from the struggle of education, earning and medicines and connecting them to the mainstream of development. Therefore, wake up, wake up and raise your voice, caste counting is your right and it will take you out of the darkness of difficulties and towards the light,” he added.

“Count is our slogan because counting is the ‘first step to justice’,” he added.

Previously, on Friday, Rahul asserted that his party would disrupt the existing order where a small group of billionaires dominates wealth and resources, leaving 90 percent of the population marginalized. He pledged to establish a dedicated Rs 5,000 crore fund to foster entrepreneurship among youth from ordinary backgrounds, aiming to empower them to initiate their own ventures.

BJP should conduct nationwide caste census, says Akhilesh Yadav

October 3, 2023, 11:59 am

After the Bihar government released the caste survey report, Akhilesh Yadav, the leader of the Samajwadi Party, expressed his endorsement of the report and urged the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to put aside political considerations and carry out a comprehensive caste census across the nation.

Akhilesh Yadav conveyed his support via a statement on X, stating, “The publication of the Bihar caste-based census marks a significant step towards achieving social justice through mathematical representation. The caste census doesn’t sow the seeds of a divisive 85-15 conflict but rather promotes collaboration.

“Those who advocate for the rights of all, rather than dominance, embrace and endorse it. To genuinely secure our rights, it is imperative to conduct a nationwide caste census. The BJP government should refrain from politicizing this issue and prioritize conducting the census.”

Akhilesh Yadav further emphasized that conducting a caste census can serve as a catalyst for the progress of the nation. He elaborated that having accurate knowledge of the population within various caste groups fosters self-confidence among people.

“When people come to know how many they are, then self-confidence awakens among them and also a social consciousness against social injustice, due to which their unity increases and they can overcome the obstacles coming in the way of their progress.

“They create new paths and also end the injustice being done by the traditional powerful people of the society. With this, the society moves on the path of equality and the country develops in an integrated manner. The caste census is the path to progress of the country,” Akhilesh Yadav said.

“Now it is certain that PDA will decide the direction of future politics,” he added.