Jairam Ramesh Criticizes Delay in 2021 Census, Calls for Caste-wise Data Collection

Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh criticizes the delayed 2021 Census, emphasizing the impact on economic planning and social justice. He urged the government to include caste-wise data collection in the next Census to better address affirmative action programmes.

Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh sharply criticized the prolonged delay in conducting the 2021 Census, pointing out the significant repercussions for economic planning and social justice initiatives. He stated that crucial information necessary for these programmes has not been collected since the last Census in 2011.

Ramesh further suggested that the government could easily incorporate caste-wise data on the OBC population in the forthcoming Census by adding an extra column. He noted that since 1951, each Census has gathered data on scheduled castes and tribes, making this adjustment straightforward.

The Congress leader underscored that conducting the Census is exclusively the Union Government's responsibility, as stipulated in entry number 69 of the Union List in the Seventh Schedule of the Indian Constitution. He added this move would lay a stronger foundation for affirmative action and fulfill a longstanding demand for a caste-based Census.

As part of its 2024 general election manifesto, the Congress Party has pledged to conduct a nationwide Socio-Economic and Caste Census and pass a constitutional amendment to raise the Supreme Court-mandated 50% cap on reservations for SCs, STs, and OBCs.

(With inputs from agencies.)