Peter Drucker’s famous quote, “Only what gets measured gets managed,” underscores the importance of data collection for addressing societal challenges effectively. In India, caste remains a pivotal determinant of socioeconomic status, yet accurate caste data has been conspicuously absent from the Census since 1951 (excluding SCs and STs).
This blog explores the need, challenges, and roadmap for implementing a caste census in India, offering a balanced perspective on this contentious issue.
What is a Census?
A Census is a comprehensive exercise to collect data on a country's demography, culture, and economic structures. In India, the first census was conducted non-synchronously in 1872. The first synchronous census was conducted in 1881 by W.C. Plowden under British rule.
Key points:
Conducted every 10 years under the Census Act, 1948.
Managed by the Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India, Ministry of Home Affairs.
Listed under Entry 69 of the Union List in the Seventh Schedule of the Indian Constitution.
Caste Census in India: A Historical Overview
British Era (1881–1931): Caste was a key parameter in every Census.
Post-Independence (1951): Caste enumeration excluded except for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs). States were advised to conduct their surveys for OBC data as central reservations for OBCs didn’t exist then.
Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC-2011): Conducted outside the Census Act, 1948. Poorly executed, resulting in flawed data (e.g., 46 lakh castes identified).
Why is a Caste Census Needed?
Arguments Against a Caste Census
1. Social Divisiveness
Critics argue that caste enumeration could deepen divisions.some text
However, data on religion, language, and region hasn’t fueled conflict but informed policymaking.
Ignoring caste will not erase casteism.
2. Administrative Challenges
Critics highlight logistical difficulties.some text
Yet, India has successfully enumerated over 1,200 SC castes and 698 ST tribes.
3. Reservation Demands
Concerns over fueling demands for increased reservations.some text
Objective caste data can instead curb arbitrary demands and ensure informed policymaking.
Current Status and Challenges
Failed SECC-2011:
Conducted outside the Census Act.
Poor design led to implausible outcomes.
Judiciary’s Demand for Caste Data:
Several states faced judicial stays on OBC reservations in local elections due to a lack of caste-wise data.
Benefits of Including OBCs in the Census
Strengthening Reservation Policies: Helps revise OBC lists periodically, as mandated by the Supreme Court.
Inclusive Representation: Ensures fair representation of OBCs in panchayats and municipalities, as per the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments.
Judicial Compliance: Provides the judiciary with accurate data to uphold reservation policies.
Steps to Conduct a Successful Caste Census
Amend the Census Act, 1948: Mandate caste enumeration to remove executive discretion.
Include Relevant Questions in Census Forms: Questions on sub-castes, larger caste groups, and surnames.
Expert-Led Planning: Sociologists and anthropologists should draft state-specific caste lists. Publish these lists for public input before finalizing.
Leverage Technology: Use internet-enabled devices with preloaded caste details to simplify and ensure accuracy.
Regular Monitoring: Set up oversight committees for quality checks and addressing enumerator errors.
Way Forward
To address systemic inequalities and ensure targeted policy interventions, India must embrace a caste census. This requires political will, transparent execution, and active participation from civil society. Accurate caste data will not only empower marginalized communities but also strengthen the democratic fabric of the nation.
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