Rahul Gandhi Backs Caste Census but Demands Clarity on Timeline and Method

New Delhi, April 30 — Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has expressed support for the central government's decision to include caste-based data in the upcoming national census, but insisted that the government must specify a clear timeline and methodology for the exercise.

Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Gandhi welcomed the move but questioned the delay in its implementation. He pointed out that it had been 11 years since the last national census, and emphasized the need for urgency and transparency. As per agency report, the government announced that the upcoming census will include caste enumeration in a "transparent manner."

The announcement was made following a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs, where Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw clarified that while the census falls under the central government’s jurisdiction, some states have already conducted caste surveys under their own authority.

Gandhi reiterated his earlier statement made in Parliament, asserting that a caste census was essential to ensure social justice and representation. He also referenced Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s past remark suggesting there were "only four castes" in the country, questioning the government’s sudden shift in stance.

Highlighting the importance of a clear roadmap, Gandhi urged the government to announce a specific date by which the caste-based enumeration will be completed. He also called for clarity on the procedures that will be followed during the data collection process.

He cited Telangana’s caste survey as a potential model for how such an enumeration could be effectively conducted.