As the demand for a caste-based census intensifies in Bihar, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has stepped into the debate, promoting the Telangana model as an ideal approach. He took a swipe at PM Narendra Modi, the BJP, and the RSS, accusing them of being against caste-based surveys and deliberately maintaining silence on the issue.
Congress Push for Caste-Based Survey
Addressing a public gathering, Rahul Gandhi emphasized the significance of a detailed caste survey to ensure equitable distribution of resources among marginalized communities. He pointed out that Telangana’s model of caste-based data collection has helped in policy-making and social justice initiatives.
“In Telangana, the government conducted a comprehensive caste survey to understand the socio-economic conditions of different communities. Why can’t Bihar implement the same?” Rahul questioned.
He asserted that the Congress supports affirmative action policies and believes that a scientific caste census is crucial for uplifting backward classes, Dalits, and minorities.
BJP and RSS’s Opposition
The caste census debate has been politically charged, with BJP leaders and RSS ideologues maintaining their opposition to such surveys. BJP leaders argue that caste-based surveys could create social divisions, while Rahul Gandhi and opposition parties counter that ignoring caste realities perpetuates inequality.
“Modi ji does not want to speak on caste census because he fears it will expose the inequality in resource distribution,” Rahul alleged, adding that the BJP is reluctant to take steps that might challenge its core vote bank strategies.
Bihar’s Caste Census Demand
In Bihar, the demand for a caste-based survey has gained momentum with the ruling JD(U)-RJD alliance, led by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and Deputy CM Tejashwi Yadav, actively supporting it. The state government has already conducted an initial caste-based survey, which has triggered strong political reactions.
Telangana Model: A Template for Bihar?
The Telangana caste survey, initiated by the BRS government, was designed to gather data on social and economic indicators of various caste groups. This information has been used for targeted welfare schemes, ensuring that backward classes receive adequate government support.
Rahul Gandhi believes that adopting a similar model in Bihar would address historical injustices and allow for data-driven policymaking. He urged Bihar’s political leadership to push for legislative measures ensuring transparency and fair representation.
Political Implications
The caste census debate is set to play a crucial role in Bihar’s political landscape ahead of the 2025 assembly elections. While Congress and regional allies continue to advocate for it, the BJP faces a tough challenge in balancing its stance on social justice policies without alienating its upper-caste support base.
Key Takeaways
Rahul Gandhi promotes the Telangana model for a caste survey in Bihar.
PM Modi, BJP, and RSS accused of opposing caste-based census.
Bihar’s ruling JD(U)-RJD alliance strongly backs caste surveys.
Telangana’s survey model is praised for its social justice policies.
The issue will significantly impact Bihar’s 2025 elections.
