Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has praised the Union Cabinet’s recent decision to include caste enumeration in the upcoming census, emphasizing its significance for social justice. In a post on X, he described the 2025 census as a milestone that honors key figures like Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia and Jan Nayak Karpoori Thakur, stating, “We welcome #Census 2025, which will further strengthen the agenda of social justice.”
The Modi government has long claimed to advocate for the rights and representation of backward communities. Sarma reiterated this commitment, highlighting the administration’s efforts to align with the principles of social equity. The announcement comes as part of the government’s broader social justice agenda, which aims to analyze and address the needs of various communities across India.
On Wednesday, the Union government confirmed that caste enumeration would be transparently incorporated into the next census. While the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has lauded this decision as a victory for social justice, opposition parties have raised concerns, arguing that prolonged pressure from them prompted the administration to address what they deem a sensitive issue. The Congress party and others have campaigned vigorously for a national caste census, making it a pivotal element in the lead-up to the 2024 general elections. Some states, including Bihar, Telangana, and Karnataka, have already conducted similar surveys, echoing demands for broader recognition.
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw acknowledged that while the census falls under the jurisdiction of the Centre, many states have previously undertaken caste enumeration in a manner that lacked transparency, leading to public skepticism. He stated, “Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the cabinet committee of political affairs has decided that caste enumeration should be included with the forthcoming census,” reinforcing the government’s commitment to societal values and interests.
As the decision gains traction, it becomes increasingly relevant with assembly elections approaching in Bihar, where several political parties, including BJP allies, have expressed support for the caste census initiative. This growing political momentum reflects the complexity and sensitivity surrounding caste identity in India.
In summary, the inclusion of caste enumeration in the upcoming census marks a vital step towards addressing the needs of diverse communities. As advocates for social justice push for greater representation, the government’s latest move underscores a pivotal moment in Indian politics, setting the stage for discussions that resonate far beyond the census itself. With significant electoral implications on the horizon, the dialogue around caste and its implications for representation is likely to gain even more intensity as elections approach.
This decision not only highlights the government’s efforts to engage with pressing social issues but also raises pertinent questions about transparency and inclusivity in the census process. As the narrative unfolds, the impact of these developments will shape the socio-political landscape in Assam and across India in the coming years.
Original Source: https://nenews.in/assam/assam-cm-welcomes-centres-decision-to-include-caste-enumeration-in-census/24509/
Category : Assam,Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma,Indian census
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Publish Date: 2025-05-01 11:14:00
