Union Cabinet Approves Caste Enumeration in Upcoming Census

1. The Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs has given approval for caste-based enumeration in the upcoming national census.
2. This decision marks a significant shift toward data-driven governance and inclusive policymaking.

Historical Background of Caste Enumeration in India:

1. 1881 to 1931 (British Era): The British administration conducted detailed caste-based census for colonial administrative purposes.
2. Post-Independence (1951 Onwards): The Government of India discontinued general caste enumeration, continuing only for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes to promote national unity.
3. 1961 Directive: The Central Government authorized states to conduct independent surveys for identifying Other Backward Classes (OBCs).
4. SECC 2011 (Socio-Economic and Caste Census):
   1. Conducted to collect data on the socio-economic status of households across various caste groups.
   2. However, caste-wise data from SECC 2011 was never officially released due to data inconsistencies.

Census in India – Constitutional and Legal Basis:

1. Census is a Union Subject under Entry 69 of the Union List (Schedule VII) as per Article 246 of the Constitution.
2. The Census Act, 1948 provides the legal framework for conducting census and defines the role of census officers.

Why Caste Enumeration in Census is Important:

1. Judicial Mandate:

1. As per Indra Sawhney & Others v. Union of India (1992), caste-based backwardness must be objectively assessed.
2. The Supreme Court held that such identification should undergo periodic review by a permanent expert body.

2. Promoting Social Justice:

1. Caste data, along with socio-economic indicators, may help in revising the list of socially and educationally backward classes (SEBCs).
2. It can enable a ‘quota-within-quota’ system, ensuring equitable distribution of reservation benefits through sub-categorization.

3. Evidence-Based Policymaking:

1. Accurate caste data allows for targeted welfare schemes, addressing the specific needs of underprivileged and marginalized communities.
2. It will help policymakers make informed decisions based on ground realities rather than assumptions.
3.