The recent demand for a caste census by the Opposition parties, led by the Congress, is a clear example of their divisive agenda. They claim that a caste census is necessary to provide accurate data on the socio-economic status of various castes, and to ensure fair and adequate representation and allocation of resources to them. They also argue that a caste census will help in identifying and addressing the problems of the backward and deprived communities, and in promoting social harmony and justice.
The Indian constitution, which came into force on January 26, 1950, is a remarkable document that enshrines the principles of democracy, secularism, and social justice. It guarantees equal rights and opportunities to all citizens, regardless of their caste, creed, religion, or gender. It also provides for affirmative action and reservation policies to uplift the historically oppressed and marginalized sections of society, such as the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes.
However, despite the constitutional provisions and the progressive reforms undertaken by successive governments, the caste system continues to haunt Indian society. Caste, which is a rigid and hierarchical system of social stratification based on birth, occupation, and ritual purity, has been a source of discrimination, oppression, and violence for centuries. It has also been a tool of political mobilization and manipulation, especially by the Opposition parties, who are hell-bent on dividing India along caste lines.
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The arguments of the Opposition are hollow and hypocritical, as they ignore the ground realities and the potential consequences of a caste census. A caste census, which has not been conducted in India since 1931, will not only be a logistical nightmare but also a social disaster. It will open a Pandora’s box of caste conflicts and controversies, as different castes will compete and clash over their numbers, identities, and claims. It will also reinforce and perpetuate the caste consciousness and prejudices, which are antithetical to the spirit of the constitution and the nation.
A caste census will not solve the problems of the backward and deprived communities but rather create new ones. It won’t promote social harmony and justice but rather deepen the rift and resentment among different sections of society. It will not strengthen the unity and integrity of India, but rather weaken and undermine it.
The Opposition parties, who are demanding a caste census, are not interested in the welfare of the people, but in their political gains. Exploiting the caste card to garner support in the imminent state elections, they are treading a dangerous path, putting India’s future at risk. In doing so, they betray the vision of the nation’s founding fathers, who envisioned India as a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic. This approach also amounts to a disservice to the sacrifices and struggles of the countless Indians who fought for the freedom and dignity of the country.
The people of India must reject the divisive and destructive agenda of the Opposition parties, and uphold the constitutional and democratic principles of the country. They must embrace the diversity and plurality of India, and celebrate the common identity and destiny of India. They must also realize that caste is not a matter of census but of conscience. They must rise above caste, and unite for India.