The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the ideological mentor of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has voiced support for conducting a caste census for welfare purposes, but cautioned against its use in electoral campaigns.
RSS Prachar Pramukh, Sunil Ambekar, emphasized the significance of the caste census for gathering data necessary for national integration. He stated, “The government should get it [caste census] done for data purposes… Caste reactions are a sensitive issue in our society, and they are important for national integration.” However, Ambekar also warned against leveraging the caste census for electoral gains, saying, “The caste census should not be used for election campaigning and electoral purposes.”
These remarks were made during a press conference following a three-day conclave held in Palakkad, Kerala. The RSS’s position comes amid demands from opposition leaders, particularly Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, for a nationwide caste census. Gandhi and others argue that such a census is crucial for policy-making and ensuring fair representation of marginalized communities.
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In response to Ambekar’s comments, the Congress party criticized the RSS and BJP, accusing them of neglecting the welfare of marginalized groups. The party reaffirmed its commitment to conducting a caste census if elected, stating, “There will be caste census, and Congress will get it done.”
Rahul Gandhi has consistently advocated for a nationwide caste census, highlighting its importance in protecting the Constitution and ensuring social justice. The demand for a national caste census has gained traction, especially after the ruling party in Bihar, Janata Dal (United), led by Nitish Kumar, released the results of a statewide caste survey showing that over 80% of the state’s population belongs to extremely backward classes.
In the midst of this debate, the RSS clarified that it is not against the idea of a caste census. Ambekar noted, “We believe it must be used for the all-encompassing progress of society, and while doing so, all sides must ensure that social harmony and integrity are not disturbed.” This clarification followed controversial remarks by RSS functionary Shridhar Gadge, who had earlier dismissed the caste census as a “futile exercise” that would benefit only a select few.
The RSS’s nuanced stance indicates a willingness to support the caste census for social and welfare purposes while maintaining a cautious approach to its potential misuse in political campaigns.
