Kharge Presses Modi on Caste Census, Demands Action

In a significant political move, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has intensified his call for a nationwide caste census, urging Prime Minister Narendra Modi to announce a clear and definitive timeline for its execution. This demand underscores the growing political pressure surrounding the issue, which has become a focal point in the national discourse on social justice.  

Kharge’s appeal is rooted in the Congress party’s long-standing advocacy for a comprehensive caste census, aimed at providing crucial data to inform policies addressing social and economic inequalities. In his recent communication to the Prime Minister, Kharge emphasized the necessity of a transparent and time-bound approach to the census, highlighting its importance in ensuring equitable distribution of resources and opportunities.  

Key points of Kharge’s communication include:

• Demand for a Clear Timeline:
  • Kharge has pressed for the Prime Minister to publicly announce a concrete timeline for each stage of the caste census process. This demand is designed to bring increased accountability and ensure that the process is not indefinitely delayed.  
• Emphasis on Social Justice:
  • Kharge has reiterated that a caste census is essential for achieving social and economic justice, enabling the government to formulate targeted policies for marginalized communities.  
• Calling for all party dialogue:
  • Kharge also called on the prime minister to have a dialogue with all political parties soon on the issue of the caste census.  
• Telangana Model:
  • Kharge has also suggested that the central government adopt the Telangana model for the caste census.  
• Removal of the 50% reservation cap:
  • Kharge also advocated for the removal of the 50 percent reservation cap.  
• Implementation of Article 15(5):
  • He also pushed for the immediate implementation of Article 15(5) of the Constitution, which provides for reservations for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes in private educational institutions.  

The Congress party maintains that the data gathered from a caste census will be instrumental in identifying and addressing the specific needs of various communities, thereby promoting inclusive development.

The issue of a caste census has gained considerable momentum in recent times, with several regional parties also voicing their support. The Congress party is pushing this issue, and trying to hold the ruling party accountable.