India’s Caste Census: Affirmative Action, Data, and Controversy
India’s upcoming census will, for the first time since 1931, include caste-based data, a decision with significant socio-political implications. This move is expected to fuel demands for increased quotas in government jobs and education, currently capped at 50%, especially for Other Backward Classes (OBCs). While past governments resisted such data collection, fearing social unrest, supporters argue it’s crucial for effective social justice programs. The inclusion of caste data follows pressure from opposition parties and comes ahead of crucial state elections where caste plays a major role.
John Q. Hosedrinker