22, Aug 2023 | Hasi Jain

The issue of a caste-based survey in Bihar has once again brought to the forefront the complex interplay between social stratification, politics, and governance in India.

The ongoing survey, launched by the Bihar government, seeks to collect comprehensive data on caste demographics and socio-economic conditions within the state’s population. The survey’s implications are far-reaching, with potential impacts on policy-making, representation, and the fight against caste-based discrimination. However, this initiative has not been without entrenched opposition, these leading to legal challenges and debates about its necessity and consequences.

Historical Context and Importance of Caste Data:

The historical context of caste-based census in India dates back to 1931, during the time of British colonial rule. This comprehensive census attempted to capture the intricate tapestry of caste identities that make up the social fabric of the country. However, since then, the endeavour to gather caste-related data has been met with various challenges, often rooted in concerns related to “privacy, discrimination, and the potential for political manipulation.” Hidden by these stated concerns, however lies a caste privilege based resistance reluctance to be faced with data that will, in every likelihood, upturb propagandist views.

Despite the passage of time and the evolution of Indian society, the question of caste remains deeply embedded within its social, economic, and political dynamics. The consequences and continued widespread prevalence of the caste system continue to shape access to education, employment opportunities, and even political representation. In recognition of these enduring inequalities, the concept of affirmative action emerged in the form of the caste-based reservation system.

The reservation system was conceived with the intention of addressing historical injustices, ensuring that historically marginalized and oppressed communities receive opportunities for advancement and upliftment. However, the efficacy of this system hinges on the availability of accurate and up-to-date data. Without reliable caste data, it becomes increasingly challenging to implement targeted policies that can effectively address the complex socio-economic disparities arising from centuries of caste-based discrimination.

In this context, the revival of caste-based census is not merely a statistical exercise; it carries significant socio-political and policy implications. Accurate and current data on caste demographics is essential for designing and implementing policies that cater to the unique needs and challenges faced by various communities. It empowers the government to allocate resources, develop educational programs, and establish affirmative action initiatives based on a nuanced understanding of the prevailing disparities.

The reservation system, intended as a tool of social justice, can only fulfill its purpose when it is backed by comprehensive and precise caste data. By ensuring that benefits are distributed fairly and equitably among disadvantaged communities, the system can effectively counteract the historical biases that have entrenched inequalities for generations.

The reluctance to undertake a caste-based census, fueled by concerns over data privacy and potential political consequences, must be balanced against the urgent need to address the deep-rooted inequalities that persist within Indian society. By embracing a caste-based census with transparency, thoughtful implementation, and sensitivity to concerns, the Indian government has an opportunity to harness accurate data as a powerful tool for positive change. This change is not only about numbers and categories; it is about acknowledging historical wrongs, enabling social mobility, and fostering an inclusive society where every citizen can thrive regardless of their caste background.

Caste as an Intrinsic Marker within Indian Democracy:

Caste, a deeply ingrained social hierarchy based on birth, has historically been an intrinsic marker  of Indian society. Its roots trace back to ancient times, shaping relationships, professions, and even religious practices. Despite the significant changes that accompanied India’s transition to a democratic nation, caste continues to play a substantial role in both social and political spheres, to the extent of causing restrictions and exclusions.

In Indian democracy, caste manifests itself in several ways:

Impact on Social and Political Spheres:

The enduring influence of caste has far-reaching implications for Indian society:

Nation Builders’ Intentions and Post-Independence Efforts:

The framers of India’s constitution recognised the detrimental impact of the caste system on social cohesion and sought to create a modern, egalitarian nation. With the aim of eradicating caste-based discrimination and inequality, they incorporated provisions for social justice, reservations, and equal rights for all citizens.

However, erasing centuries of caste-based discrimination proved challenging. Despite the idealistic vision of India as a casteless society, the deeply entrenched nature of caste required more than legal reforms. Over time, political leaders recognised that caste could not be ignored, leading to policies such as affirmative action to uplift marginalized communities.

While India has made progress, the legacy of caste endures. The challenge lies in reconciling the aspiration for a modern, inclusive society with the reality of deeply embedded caste identities. Acknowledging and addressing caste-based inequalities is essential for building a truly democratic nation where every citizen enjoys equal rights, opportunities, and dignity.

Current Scenario: The Bihar Caste-Based Census:

The Bihar government’s initiation of a caste-based survey seeks to gather comprehensive data on the socio-economic conditions of various caste groups, with a focus on historically marginalized and disadvantaged communities. The objectives of this survey are multi-fold:

While the Bihar government’s intent to conduct a caste-based survey is laudable, the recent Patna High Court order reflects an opposing view.

The concerns raised by various communities and activists highlight the importance of ensuring that the survey is designed and executed in a manner that respects the identities and rights of all individuals, while also fulfilling its objectives of collecting accurate socio-economic data for effective policy formulation and inclusive development.

Patna High Court’s Ruling:

The Patna High Court’s recent judgment instructed the Bihar government to immediately halt the ongoing caste-based survey. The court’s decision was prompted by concerns raised in petitions filed by various groups and activists. The key issues highlighted in the petitions included data integrity, data security, allocation of substantial funds for the survey, and the overall legality of conducting such an exercise. The petitioners contended that the survey’s approach was flawed and failed to adequately address the concerns of marginalised communities, particularly transgender individuals and Extremely Backward Class groups.

Reshma Prasad, a transgender activist, raised specific objections regarding the classification of the transgender community as a caste in the census, arguing that it misrepresented their identity and further marginalized an already vulnerable population. Other groups from the Lohar community and some from the Extremely Backward Class also expressed concerns about the survey’s methodology and potential consequences.

The court’s interim order to stop the survey reflects the complexity of the issue and the need for thorough examination. The court’s decision has provided an opportunity for the Bihar government to address the concerns raised by various communities and activists and potentially refine the survey’s approach to ensure accurate and comprehensive data collection.

Benefits of Caste-Based Census:

Addressing Inequalities and Formulating Effective Policies:

Accurate caste data is essential for addressing deep-rooted inequalities that persist in Indian society. The caste system has historically marginalised certain communities, depriving them of opportunities and resources. A caste-based census would provide a comprehensive picture of the socio-economic conditions of different caste groups, allowing policymakers to design targeted interventions and policies. This data-driven approach is crucial for dismantling caste-based discrimination, promoting social justice, and ensuring inclusive development.

Caste-based disparities affect various aspects of life, including education, employment, healthcare, and political representation. Without accurate data, efforts to tackle these inequalities lack precision and impact. A caste-based census would enable authorities to identify the most vulnerable communities and tailor policies that uplift them, ultimately leading to a more equitable and just society.

Insights into Wealth, Education, and Representation Gaps:

Critically, a caste-based census would yield invaluable insights into wealth distribution, educational attainment, and representation across different caste groups. The data would reveal the extent of economic disparities between upper-caste groups and historically marginalized communities. This information is crucial for understanding the socio-economic structure of Indian society and developing strategies to bridge the wealth gap.

Moreover, the census would shed light on education gaps among caste groups. It would show which communities have better access to quality education and which are lagging behind. This data would highlight the need for targeted educational reforms and initiatives to ensure that every child, regardless of their caste, has equal access to quality education.

Representation in political institutions is another vital aspect that a caste-based census would illuminate. It would provide data on the underrepresentation of certain caste groups in positions of power and decision-making. This information would prompt efforts to increase political participation and representation for historically marginalized communities, fostering a more inclusive and representative democracy.

In essence, a caste-based census is a comprehensive tool for identifying and understanding the multi-dimensional disparities that exist within Indian society. It provides a data-driven foundation for formulating policies that address these disparities and promote inclusive growth, thereby contributing to the advancement of the nation as a whole.

Opposition to Caste-Based Census:

Fear of Exposing Privilege and Dismantling Reservations:

Upper-caste and Hindutva groups oppose a caste-based census due to the fear that it would expose the extent of their socio-economic privilege and highlight the systemic advantages they have enjoyed for centuries. The data from such a census would clearly reveal the concentration of wealth, education, and power within these groups, undermining their claim to meritocracy and equal opportunity. The prospect of exposing this entrenched advantage threatens the narratives of merit-based success and could lead to a broader societal questioning of their positions and dominance.

Moreover, a caste-based census has the potential to challenge the basis of reservations and affirmative action programs that are meant to uplift historically marginalized communities. Accurate data would help in recalibrating reservation policies by considering the actual socio-economic conditions of different caste groups rather than relying on outdated statistics. This recalibration might result in more equitable distribution of reserved seats and benefits, leading to a reduction in the privileges that upper-caste groups have historically enjoyed.

Apprehension About Impact on Political Alliances and Agendas:

Upper-caste and Hindutva groups are also concerned about the potential impact of a caste-based census on their political alliances and agendas. These groups often rely on consolidating the support of various caste communities, including non-dominant OBCs, through a narrative of Hindu unity. A caste-based census could disrupt this narrative by exposing the distinct socio-economic conditions and disparities among different caste groups, eroding the notion of a homogenous Hindu vote bank.

For example, upper-caste and Hindutva groups have traditionally sought to forge alliances with non-dominant OBCs to strengthen their political base. These alliances are based on a broad Hindu identity that often overlooks caste differences. However, a caste-based census might reveal that the interests and concerns of non-dominant OBCs differ significantly from those of upper-caste groups, potentially leading to fractures within these political alliances.

Additionally, upper-caste and Hindutva groups might fear that a caste-based census could reconfigure political dynamics by giving a voice to historically marginalized communities. The resulting data could lead to the emergence of new political actors who advocate for issues relevant to these communities, thereby challenging the dominance of existing political forces.

In conclusion, the opposition from upper-caste and Hindutva groups to a caste-based census stems from their fear of losing socio-economic privilege, dismantling their historical advantages, and the potential disruption of their political alliances and agendas. These concerns reflect the complex interplay between socio-economic dynamics, political power, and identity politics in contemporary India

Importance of OBC Census:

Urgency to Bridge Inequalities and Address Historical Injustices:

Conducting a caste-based census, especially with a focus on Other Backward Classes (OBCs), is of paramount importance to address entrenched inequalities and historical injustices that continue to persist in Indian society. The marginalised and historically disadvantaged OBC communities have faced socio-economic discrimination and exclusion for generations. Accurate data about their representation, access to education, economic opportunities, and political participation is crucial to devise targeted policies that can uplift these communities and provide them with equal opportunities for growth and development.

OBC communities have suffered from systemic disadvantages that have hindered their social mobility and access to resources. A caste-based census would shed light on the extent of these disparities and help policymakers understand the nuanced challenges faced by OBC communities across different regions and sectors. Such data would be instrumental in formulating policies that address these specific challenges and ensure a more equitable distribution of resources, opportunities, and benefits.

Efforts of State Governments: