Why a Caste Census is a ‘Regressive’ Measure ‘Dividing’ Modern India

What does a caste census aim to achieve in a modern, progressive India? Does it truly address inequality, or does it rather reinforce the very divisions India has spent decades trying to overcome? Are we ready to focus on inclusive economic growth, social equity, and shared prosperity, or are we content with looking at the world through the lens of archaic categories? These are the questions swirling around the decision by Congress-led state governments to push forward with a caste census, encouraged by Rahul Gandhi. In an era defined by technology, globalization, and rising aspirations, the proposal for a caste census appears, at best, to be a redundant endeavor — and at worst, a divisive maneuver that could disrupt the nation’s social fabric.

The premise of a caste census is to gather data on caste demographics, ostensibly to inform policy decisions and improve representation. But at what cost? India’s Constitution and the evolution of its democratic framework were intended to transcend the deeply ingrained divisions of caste, religion, and region. With this census, however, are we risking the re-embedding of caste as a central aspect of personal and public identity? Rahul Gandhi's push for this census raises numerous questions about its true intent and the potential damage it could cause. Is this a sincere attempt at social welfare, or is there an ulterior motive — an attempt to divide Hindus along caste lines, a throwback to the politics of the past?

The Resurgence of a Divisive Identity

Since Independence, India has embarked on a journey to build a unified identity that transcends caste and social stratifications. The caste system, a relic of the past, has been challenged through progressive policies that encourage equality in education, employment, and political representation. With the recent caste census initiatives, however, Congress seems intent on turning back the clock, re-establishing caste as a primary marker of identity. But what kind of society will this cultivate? Rather than a unified nation with shared aspirations, will India risk becoming a collection of groups more invested in their caste-based entitlement than in collective progress?

Promoting a caste census perpetuates untouchability and other forms of discrimination in a way that sidesteps the progress we have made. It locks individuals back into predetermined boxes that overlook talent, merit, and individual achievement. In an era where countries globally are promoting innovation, equal opportunity, and upward mobility, is this really where India should invest taxpayer money?

The Economic Cost of Caste-Based Data Collection

Beyond the social implications, a caste census raises fundamental concerns about the misuse of public funds. Conducting a nationwide survey on caste is a monumental task, requiring significant resources to collate, verify, and analyze data. Every rupee spent on this initiative is a rupee taken away from addressing immediate issues such as infrastructure, health, and economic development — areas where the benefits to society are tangible and measurable.

Rather than a caste survey, why not conduct a socio-economic survey that prioritizes poverty alleviation and focuses on regions that have historically been deprived of opportunities? By shifting the conversation to economic need rather than caste-based categorization, resources can be better allocated to lift up all of India’s underprivileged, regardless of background.

The Politicization of Social Identity

Rahul Gandhi’s enthusiasm for a caste census raises concerns about the political motivations underlying this exercise. Congress, a party that once stood for secularism and unity, appears to be leaning into identity politics in an attempt to regain relevance. In doing so, it risks pitting castes against one another, leveraging caste-based politics as a way to curry favor with specific groups while ignoring the broader national interest.

But what is Rahul Gandhi’s vision for a united India if it hinges on dividing people along caste lines? Is this an attempt to win back lost vote banks through caste-based appeal rather than policy substance? In the 21st century, when people are more concerned with job creation, infrastructure development, and quality of life, does focusing on caste help us achieve any of these?

A Call for a Progressive Vision, Not Regression

India is undergoing a transformation as it emerges as a global economic powerhouse. Industries are modernizing, literacy is spreading, and a tech-savvy generation is positioning India at the forefront of innovation. Against this backdrop, a caste census appears not only antiquated but counterproductive, encouraging a mindset of “us versus them” rather than fostering a shared commitment to progress.

Countries around the world are looking at India’s growth with admiration. By conducting a caste census, we risk damaging the very foundation of unity, tolerance, and inclusivity that has allowed India to flourish in the global arena. Instead of dividing Indians by caste, leaders should be working to provide equal access to quality education, healthcare, and economic opportunity, eradicating poverty, not reinforcing identity-based divides.

Final Thoughts: Which Path Forward?

As we move deeper into the 21st century, India must choose between two paths: one that embraces a future defined by shared goals and one that regresses into a past of entrenched divisions. Are we ready to commit to a society where every citizen’s potential is valued above their identity? Or will we allow the political ambitions of a few to relegate us to a bygone era of caste-based conflict and division?

Rahul Gandhi’s push for a caste census raises critical questions about the direction in which he seeks to take India. At a time when we could be celebrating progress and unity, are we willing to turn back the clock? Are we ready to let outdated categorizations determine our destiny? In a rapidly evolving world, India has an opportunity to lead by example. It’s time to decide if we want to rise together or fall divided.