Caste Census and Its Implications
Census data are crucial for public policymaking in India, especially in sectors like health, education, employment, and housing. The recent announcement by the government to include caste enumeration in the national Census has sparked significant debate.
Purpose and Potential
- Proponents argue that a caste census will provide a detailed empirical understanding of the socio-economic status of various caste groups, particularly Other Backward Classes (OBCs).
- It aims to enable more targeted affirmative action and aid in legitimizing welfare programs in the judiciary.
- Disaggregated data within the OBC category could highlight intra-group socio-economic inequalities, aiding policy formulation for Extremely Backward Classes (EBCs) within the OBCs.
Challenges and Criticisms
- There is concern that the focus on the caste census may defer welfare policy formulation under the guise of awaiting precise data.
- The role of the Registrar General of India is to collect and present factual data, not direct government policy, which could risk politicizing its work.
- Historically, social justice policies have not depended on perfect data but rather political struggle, mass mobilization, and commitment.
Existing Data and Policy Gaps
- Extensive data on caste-based inequality already exists, highlighting persistent disadvantages for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs).
- Reports show OBCs often remain in informal, low-income employment with little opportunity for mobility.
- Despite data abundance, bold policy reforms for OBCs are lacking at the national level.
Need for Political Will
- Data alone does not drive public policy; it requires the governing class's intent and democratic pressure.
- A caste census may provide insights but cannot solve issues without effective policy measures.
- The focus should be on political will to implement welfare measures for the most disadvantaged groups.
In conclusion, while a caste census can offer a clearer diagnosis of socio-economic issues, the ultimate solution lies in the political will and imagination of India's leadership to enact meaningful changes for social justice.
