India’s Caste Census: A Controversial Step Towards Social Justice

The Indian government has announced plans to include caste in the upcoming national census(Caste Census)for the first time since 1931. The decision has sparked debate about whether counting caste will uplift disadvantaged groups or further entrench divisions.

Understanding India’s Caste System
India’s caste system is a complex hierarchy that defines people’s occupations, social circles, and even marriage prospects based on their birth. The system has its roots in Hindu scriptures but is also observed by non-Hindus. The main castes include:

• Brahmins: Traditionally priests or scholars
• Dalits: Formerly known as “untouchables,” they were forced to work as cleaners and waste pickers

Why Count Caste?
Proponents argue that collecting caste data will help the government:

• Identify disadvantaged groups: To allocate resources and benefits more effectively
• Address social inequalities: By understanding the persistent gaps in wealth, health, and education between different castes
• Shape policy: To create targeted interventions and affirmative action programs

Concerns and Criticisms
Opponents argue that counting caste could:

• Further entrench divisions: By formalizing caste labels and potentially increasing tensions between groups
• Benefit some groups at the expense of others: If certain castes are found to be larger than previously thought, they may receive more affirmative action benefits, angering traditionally privileged groups

Quotes from Experts

• “The next census is going to be a historical census… We are effectively flying blind, designing policies in the dark while claiming to pursue social justice.” – Poonam Muttreja, Executive Director of the Population Foundation of India
• “Caste discrimination is already such an evident, inescapable fact of life that simply asking the question won’t cause harm.” – Sonalde Desai, demographer and Professor Emerita of Sociology at the University of Maryland College Park

Implications and Next Steps
The census data could:

• Reveal intersectional gaps: Highlighting the struggles of women in rural areas or specific castes
• Inform policy decisions: Shaping school funding, health outreach, employment schemes, and more
• Force the government to act: By providing concrete data on caste disparities, the government may be compelled to address these issues more effectively.