Caste-Based Census in India

Syllabus: GS2/Polity/Governance

Context

• Analysis of the caste based census of Bihar signifies why a caste-based Census is imperative in India to understand the socio-economic conditions of disadvantaged groups.

What is the Census?

• The Census refers to a periodic and systematic collection of demographic, economic, and social data of a population within a specific region. 
• It is typically conducted by governments to gather detailed information about the population’s characteristics and living conditions.
• The Census provides crucial data that governments, businesses, researchers, and policymakers use for various purposes such as planning public services, allocating funding, and making informed decisions.

Caste Based Census 

• Caste Based Census: It involves enumerating the population based on their caste affiliations during the national census.
  • This data is used to understand the socio-economic status of different caste groups, identify disparities, and design policies for affirmative action.
• Background: From the colonial era’s regimental assignments to identify “criminal tribes,” caste data has been integral to administrative and political strategies.
  • In 2011, the government undertook the first-ever Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC); however, it was never made public.
  • There were many anomalies in the caste data as a large section of the population chose different ways to identify their castes.
• Constitutional Recognition: Post-independence, the Constitution institutionalised affirmative action through Articles 16(4) and 340, recognising the socio-economic backwardness of certain groups.
  • However, these classifications were often based on “expert assessments” rather than empirical data, as seen with the Mandal Commission.
• While repeated calls for a national caste Census did not materialise, Bihar went ahead, conducting its own in 2023.

Arguments in the Favour of the Caste Based Census

• Accurate Data for Targeted Welfare: It can provide precise data on the socio-economic conditions of different caste groups, allowing the government to tailor welfare programs effectively for marginalized communities.
• Identify Disparities: It helps identify existing inequalities in education, employment, and access to resources.
• Strengthen Affirmative Action: It helps ensure that affirmative action policies like reservations are based on accurate and updated data, ensuring fair representation for underrepresented communities.
• Social Justice: The census could push for better policies for upliftment, enhancing social justice for historically disadvantaged groups.
• Policy Evaluation and Reform: The data could be used to assess the impact of existing policies on different caste groups, leading to better policy reforms and improved governance.

Arguments Against the Caste Based Census

• Perpetuation of Caste Divisions: It might reinforce caste identities, potentially deepening social divisions and promoting discrimination instead of fostering unity.
• Focus on Caste Over Development: Critics argue that focusing on caste may divert attention from more universal issues like poverty, education, and healthcare, which affect all communities.
• Inaccurate Representation: Some believe that caste-based data may be inaccurate due to the fluidity of caste identities and the reluctance of people to disclose their caste openly.
• Risks to National Integration: Some fear that caste-based enumeration could undermine national integration by creating a sense of competition among groups, rather than promoting a cohesive national identity.

Conclusion

• A detailed look at the Bihar Census 2023 highlights the deep-rooted socio-economic inequalities in the State.
  • The higher castes benefit from better income, education, and employment opportunities, while marginalised groups like Musahars and Bhuiyas remain excluded.
• The Bihar caste Census is proof of the need for detailed caste data. 
  • By offering comprehensive insights, this Census shows how it can become an essential tool for informing policies and ensuring resources are allocated effectively.

Source: TH