The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) voiced its support for the caste census on Monday, emphasising that the issue should be addressed with seriousness and not be reduced to a mere tool for electoral or political purposes.

Speaking on the matter, the chief spokesperson of RSS, Sunil Ambekar said, “In our Hindu society we have the sensitive issue of our caste and caste relations . Of course, it is an important issue of our national unity and integrity. It should be dealt very seriously, not on the basis of electioneering or election practices or politics.”

“RSS is of the opinion that for all welfare activities, particularly when addressing a specific community or caste that requires special attention, the government needs numbers,” said Ambekar, adding that this practice is well-established and can be implemented again.

The Congress has been actively advocating for a caste census, which it had pledged to undertake in its Lok Sabha election manifesto. The party committed to conducting a nationwide socio-economic and caste census to document the various castes, sub-castes, and their socio-economic conditions. Additionally, Congress vowed to introduce a constitutional amendment aimed at lifting the 50 percent cap on reservations for Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC).

Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, has been advocating for a caste census, asserting that 90 percent of India’s population is excluded from the current system. This demand aligns with recent findings from the ‘Mood of the Nation’ (MOTN) survey conducted by CVoter for India Today magazine, which revealed that 74 percent of respondents now support the idea of a caste census. This reflects a notable rise in public support, up from 59 percent in February 2024.

Referring to the survey, Gandhi had said, “Hindustan’s order has come – Soon 90 percent of Indians will support and demand caste census. Implement the order now, or you will see the next prime minister doing it.”

Rahul Gandhi began advocating for a nationwide caste census in the lead-up to the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Following an increase in the Congress party's representation in the Lok Sabha, he has continued to strongly promote this agenda.

Image source: HT