NATIONAL: BJP’s Caste Census Move: A Strategic Win or Congress Victory?
Government’s Surprise Announcement
The BJP-led government’s decision to include caste enumeration in the long-delayed census has stirred political waves. Announced on Wednesday, this move fulfills a key demand championed by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for over two years, raising questions about its implications for both parties.
Rahul Gandhi’s Persistent Push
Since April 2023, Gandhi has made the caste census a cornerstone of Congress’s social justice agenda, targeting OBCs who have gravitated toward the BJP since 2014. His slogan, “jitni aabadi, utna haq” (proportional representation), underscored the need for data-driven policies to address socio-economic disparities.
BJP’s Strategic Counter
The government’s announcement, led by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, criticized opposition-led caste surveys in states like Karnataka, Telangana, and Bihar as “non-transparent.” Vaishnaw argued that caste enumeration should be part of the census to maintain transparency and avoid politicizing the social fabric.
Congress Claims Credit
Rahul Gandhi welcomed the decision, framing it as a victory for Congress’s sustained pressure. He emphasized that the Modi government, previously opposed to a caste census, has adopted “our vision” but demanded clarity on timelines and funding for the census.
Beyond Caste: A Broader Vision
Gandhi highlighted the Telangana caste survey as a potential model for the center, advocating for a comprehensive approach. He envisions the census as a tool to map participation of OBCs, Dalits, and tribals in institutions and power structures, not just for reservations.
The Reservation Ceiling Debate
Gandhi reiterated his call to remove the 50% cap on reservations, a Supreme Court-imposed limit. He argued that the caste census should lay the groundwork for a “new development paradigm” to ensure equitable representation across communities.
A Delayed Census
The census, originally due earlier, remains postponed, adding urgency to Gandhi’s demand for a clear timeline, Hawkins. Congress leaders emphasized the need for adequate funding and a transparent design to ensure the census delivers meaningful developmental outcomes.
BJP’s Political Jab
Prime Minister Modi previously dismissed caste-based policies, famously stating there are only four castes. The BJP’s pivot to embrace a caste census counters Congress’s narrative but risks alienating its broader voter base, wary of divisive caste politics.
Modi’s Wealth Redistribution Charge
During the 2024 elections, Modi accused Congress of planning wealth redistribution, citing Gandhi’s call for economic and institutional surveys. His “mangalsutra” remark, implying Congress would seize personal assets, intensified the political slugfest.
Congress Moderates Its Stand
After backlash over proportional representation, the Congress Working Committee in October 2023 clarified that the caste census aims to provide socio-economic data for policy-making, not strict proportional quotas. This shift aimed to reassure voters concerned about losing existing benefits.
Political Implications
The BJP’s move may blunt Congress’s social justice plank, but it also validates Gandhi’s advocacy. As both parties vie for OBC support, the caste census’s execution and outcomes will shape India’s political landscape ahead of future elections.