Congress’s Track Record on Caste Census: A History of Avoidance and Delay

For decades, the Congress party has claimed to stand for social justice. However, its actions on the caste census tell a very different story—marked by prolonged inaction, political hesitation, and missed opportunities. Since independence, Congress has consistently avoided initiating a comprehensive caste census, denying the nation crucial data on the socio-economic status of various communities, including OBCs and those in the general category.

A Legacy of Silence
The last major caste-based enumeration occurred in 1931 under British rule. While the 1941 Census included caste data, it was never released due to World War II. When India conducted its first post-independence Census in 1951, the Congress government decided to drop caste enumeration—a political decision, not a logistical one.

Despite repeated demands by regional parties representing OBCs and other marginalized groups, Congress remained unmoved. It failed to recognize the need for updated caste data that could help shape inclusive policies and equitable resource distribution.

Missed Opportunity During UPA Rule
In 2010, ahead of the 2011 Census, then Law Minister Veerappa Moily requested the inclusion of caste data. The Congress-led UPA government rejected the idea, citing practical concerns. Under pressure, it eventually launched the Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC) separately from the main Census. However, the caste data from the SECC, despite costing nearly ₹5,000 crore, was never released.

This withholding of crucial information not only wasted public money but also raised doubts about Congress’s commitment to transparency and backward-class welfare. While socio-economic data was published in 2016, the caste findings remain under wraps.

Karnataka’s Example: Delay and Discomfort
While several non-BJP states like Bihar and Telangana have conducted recent caste surveys, Karnataka’s Congress-led approach has been less transparent. The Siddaramaiah government in 2015 launched a “Socio-Economic and Educational Survey,” but the report remained buried until February 2024.

Even Congress’s own Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar expressed discomfort over releasing the findings, fearing backlash from dominant communities like the Vokkaligas and Lingayats. This hesitation raised serious questions about Congress’s sincerity in addressing caste inequities.

A National Census, Not State-Level Patchwork
Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the BJP has advocated for a full-fledged national caste census—one that is scientific, inclusive, and transparent. Such a move would put an end to the costly, politically driven state surveys that often lead nowhere. Karnataka is a prime example, where the 2015 survey was shelved due to political sensitivities.

A centralized census would provide the necessary data to drive effective affirmative action and ensure fair representation.

Disregard for Backward Leaders
Congress’s track record with leaders from marginalized communities further exposes its contradictions. Notable examples include:

• Sitaram Kesri, an OBC leader, ousted unceremoniously to make room for Sonia Gandhi.
• Virendra Patil, a former OBC Chief Minister, dismissed without dignity.
• Jagjivan Ram, a prominent Dalit leader, sidelined within the party.
• Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, architect of the Constitution, received little support during his resignation over the Hindu Code Bill.
• Ram Nath Kovind, India’s second Dalit President, was never paid a courtesy visit by Sonia Gandhi.
• Congress did not support Droupadi Murmu, the first tribal woman President of India, and party leaders even made dismissive remarks about her.

BJP’s Proactive Steps
In contrast, the Modi government appointed a national panel to explore internal reservations among SCs. Inspired by this, Congress-led Telangana conducted a large-scale survey in early 2025, covering 98% of the population and collecting critical data on education, employment, and income.

Karnataka followed suit in 2024, appointing Justice Nagmohan Das to study internal reservations. Yet, as with earlier efforts, the findings were shelved. Despite promises, Congress has taken no steps to implement the commission’s recommendations for equitable distribution among SC sub-castes.

Political Calculations Over Social Justice
Critics argue Congress has often used caste politics as an electoral strategy rather than a tool for reform. Its reluctance to publish SECC data, delay in acting on recommendations, and inconsistent stance on caste enumeration all point to political expediency.

Time to Move Beyond Talk
A caste census is about more than numbers—it’s about recognizing real disparities and creating inclusive growth. Congress has had ample time to lead on this issue but has chosen delay and secrecy instead.

Now, as BJP calls for a full, transparent census, it’s clear that decisive action—not vague promises—is what the nation needs.

 

Reference : https://www.oneindia.com/india/congresss-dubious-record-on-caste-census-exposed-4140489.html