New Delhi: The debate over a caste census has reignited political tensions across India, with key figures like Congress MP Rahul Gandhi and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav advocating for its implementation. Adding to the mounting pressure on the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) President and Union Minister Chirag Paswan has reiterated his party’s support for the caste census.
On Sunday, Paswan made his stance unequivocally clear, stating that his party has consistently backed the demand for a caste census. He explained that both state and central governments often design schemes aimed at integrating marginalised castes into the mainstream, and accurate caste data is essential for such development initiatives.
However, Paswan drew a line when it came to public disclosure. He stressed that while the government should have access to caste data to inform policy-making, this information should not be made public. Paswan believes that keeping the data within the government’s purview would better serve the objectives of development-oriented schemes at both state and national levels.
Reflecting on his party’s legacy, Paswan noted that his late father, Ram Vilas Paswan, was a prominent Dalit leader who worked tirelessly for the welfare of marginalised communities. The national executive of the Lok Janshakti Party recently passed a resolution expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his efforts in supporting the SC/ST community.
Paswan also voiced opposition to the concept of a “creamy layer” within the Scheduled Castes (SC) community, arguing that Dalits continue to suffer from social and educational disadvantages, as well as untouchability. He cited instances where Dalit grooms are still barred from riding horses during weddings and mentioned an IPS officer who required security for his marriage due to caste-based discrimination.
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