The recent release of the census notification by the central government, notably omitting any mention of a caste-based census, has sparked b reactions from the opposition, particularly the Congress party, who are questioning the government's intentions.
Sachin Pilot On Caste Census 2027: The issue of a caste-based census has once again heated up national politics. The recent census notification issued by the central government lacks any explicit mention of caste-based enumeration, prompting a sharp response from the opposition, especially the Congress. Senior Congress leader and former Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister, Sachin Pilot, launched a scathing attack on the government, stating that its intentions are unclear and the initiative is merely a superficial gesture.
The Government, Which Once Labeled Demands for a Caste Census as 'Urban Naxalism,' Now Appears to Yield
During a press conference, Sachin Pilot questioned the government's motives, stating that the same government which previously labeled demands for a caste census as "urban Naxalism" now appears to be implementing it, seemingly under pressure from Rahul Gandhi. He argued this is a purely political strategy, its true aim being to alleviate political pressure rather than achieve social justice.
Pilot highlighted the absence of any mention of collecting caste-based data or allocation of a separate budget for it in the notification issued by the central government. He questioned, "When you're talking about a caste census, and the word 'caste' itself is missing, what bigger joke can there be?"
Central Government Urged to Adopt the Telangana Model
Pilot advised the central government that if it is genuinely serious about caste-based data, it should adopt the Telangana government's caste survey model, which employed a comprehensive and scientific method for caste enumeration and used the data to formulate welfare schemes. Accusing the BJP of adopting a double standard, Pilot stated that the BJP's opposition to a caste census is no secret. For years, they ridiculed it, only to issue a notification seemingly to appease Rahul Gandhi and the persistent pressure from the opposition.
He further emphasized that Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself had previously dismissed caste-based census as being driven by an "urban Naxal" ideology. Therefore, this U-turn is purely a political compulsion, not a commitment to social justice.
