Congress Accuses Centre of Blocking Caste Census, Demands New Survey Model

The Congress party has accused the central government of deliberately obstructing a caste census, claiming the move prevents accurate representation of Other Backward Classes (OBCs) and Economically Backward Classes (EBCs).

Party leader Manikrao Thakare stated that the government's inaction undermines the constitutional mandate for social justice and equitable policy-making. He argued that without a comprehensive caste count, welfare schemes and affirmative action cannot be effectively targeted.

Thakare demanded the formulation of a new questionnaire for the census, to be developed in consultation with political parties and domain experts. He specifically cited the caste survey models adopted in Bihar and Telangana as examples that could be adapted for a nationwide exercise.

The Congress leader's remarks come amid growing political debate over the need for a caste-based enumeration, which many opposition parties argue is essential for understanding the socio-economic conditions of marginalized communities. The government has not yet responded to the demand.