New Delhi, April 30 (H.S.): The central government has made a significant decision to include caste-based enumeration in the upcoming census. The Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved this today.

Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw provided this information during a press conference held at the National Media Centre on Wednesday. He stated that the government made this decision keeping in mind social balance, transparency, and national interest. We believe that this step will empower society economically and socially.

Vaishnaw alleged that the Congress and other opposition parties are making caste-based census a political issue for their benefit. He clarified that according to the central list of Article 246 of the Constitution, enumeration is a subject of the Centre. Nevertheless, several states have conducted caste-based enumeration. Some of these states maintained transparency, while others turned it into a political tool, creating confusion in society.

In his statement, the minister noted that caste data has not been included in any census since independence. Congress governments have repeatedly opposed this idea, even though it was limited to just a survey despite assurances given in the Lok Sabha by then-Prime Minister in 2010. At that time, a ministerial group was formed in the Cabinet. Many parties expressed their support for caste-based enumeration. Yet, it was not included in the census.

He also reminded that the government had previously provided 10 percent reservation for economically weaker sections while considering social sensitivity.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar