In a significant development, political allies of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Uttar Pradesh have come together to demand a caste-based census. The demand has been raised by several parties, including the Apna Dal, NISHAD Party, and Suheldev Bharatiya Samaj Party (SBSP).
Apna Dal, a prominent ally of the BJP in Uttar Pradesh and other states, has termed the caste-based census a crucial necessity. They argue that such a census is essential to address the concerns and requirements of various communities within the state. This move is seen as an attempt to gather more accurate data about the caste composition of the population in the state.
Om Prakash Rajbhar, who is the president of SBSP, said they have always been in favour of the caste-based census as the party fights for the rights and representation of marginalised communities.
“Caste-based census would be instrumental in achieving social justice and equity,” Rajbhar said in a statement issued here on Tuesday.
NISHAD Party, on the other hand, has quoted the 1961 census, emphasising on the need for a caste-based enumeration to reflect the ground realities accurately. They argue that relying on outdated data does a disservice to the marginalised communities in Bihar.
“This collective demand for a caste-based census underscores the growing importance of social and caste dynamics in Indian politics. It remains to be seen how the Central government responds to this demand, as it could have significant implications for the political representation and policy-making in Bihar and beyond. The issue has now gained momentum and is expected to be a focal point of political discourse in the coming months,” Nomita P Kumar of Giri Institute of Development Studies said.