BENEFITS CASTE CENSUS AND CENSUS

Context

The recent release of initial statistics from the Bihar caste census has generated a mixed response, showcasing the limitations of India's public discourse. This article delves into the reactions to the caste census, discussing the cynical, anxious, and excited responses that have emerged.

UPSC EXAM NOTES ANALYSIS:

1. Cynical Responses

The ruling party at the Centre, while occasionally flaunting its Other Backward Classes (OBC) credentials, has consistently opposed the caste census. The government's opposition is often framed as a defence of (Hindu) unity, but some perceive it as a reluctance to employ accurate data for policymaking. The delay in conducting the census further erodes confidence in the government's commitment.

2. Anxiety Over Caste Census

Certain self-appointed cosmopolitans express anxiety over the caste census. They harbour the belief that by not counting caste, it might eventually disappear. This perspective is shared by well-meaning critics who worry that a caste census might exacerbate caste identities and their politicization. Such apprehensions reflect the broader stance of the Indian state on social justice. Some opponents of the ruling party incorrectly view the caste issue as a counter to Hindutva politics. However, this approach is not a constructive means of addressing caste-based inequalities. Counting caste is not a guaranteed way to eliminate caste from society.

3. Complexities and Implications of Caste Census Data

While the Bihar caste census offers the potential for more informed public policy on social justice, the excitement generated is often devoid of a deeper understanding of the complexities and implications of such data. Notably, the census has not yet published the socio-economic information collected during this exercise.

• Rethinking the Notion of Backwardness: The need to reassess the definition of backwardness. Currently, political wisdom often assumes that all "shudra" communities are backward, but this approach disregards contemporary social and educational backwardness. The Hindu social order as the prism for understanding backwardness is questioned, and concrete factors defining social and educational backwardness are suggested as alternative criteria.
• Debating Reservation Percentages: The Bihar census results have led to discussions about the adequacy of the 27 per cent reservation for OBCs. While this is an important issue, the ongoing conversation lacks mention of the principles that should inform the extent of reservation. The principle of gross numbers alone is frequently invoked, with demands to exceed the existing 27 per cent cap. Dominant communities are also seeking inclusion among backward classes, further complicating the debate.
• Proportionality and Political Representation: The argument for proportionality in reservation policies may lead to the belief that every community can only be genuinely represented by its own members. This challenges the constitutional idea that representatives can serve a mixed electorate.
• Using Caste Census Data for Social Justice: To make better use of caste census data, there is a need for the publication of all data, particularly socio-economic information about caste groups. The next step is to map backwardness afresh, taking into account the challenges presented by numerically larger and relatively less handicapped castes. This step will determine whether society is willing to engage with the question of caste and social justice based on empirical data.
• Reimagining Social Justice Policy: The final step involves ensuring that more backward communities receive affirmative action benefits on a priority basis. This requires a reevaluation of the reservation system and a reimagining of social justice policy. It entails understanding backwardness holistically, doing away with rigid categorizations, experimenting with a backwardness index, and incentivizing the inclusion of highly backward individuals in private employment.

4. Conclusion

While counting caste is a significant step, it must be accompanied by fundamental shifts in social justice policy. The caste census provides an opportunity to reevaluate our approach to social justice, address complexities, and move beyond superficial measures to promote genuine equity and inclusion.