Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin has formally written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, highlighting the need for extreme caution in the upcoming process of caste enumeration during the national census. The census is scheduled to commence in April this year and will be conducted in phases.
Stalin Welcomes Move But Flags Sensitivity
In his letter dated Saturday, Stalin began by welcoming the Centre's decision to include caste details in the national census. He stated that this aligns with the long-standing demand of the Tamil Nadu government and has profound implications for social justice, equitable policy-making, and India's federal structure.
"I welcome the inclusion of caste details in the census, as it aligns with the longstanding demand of Tamil Nadu govt for comprehensive reliable data to address historical inequalities and ensure targeted welfare measures," Stalin wrote. He described it as a historic opportunity to strengthen India's commitment to equality.
Key Concerns Over Methodology and Framework
Despite his support, the Chief Minister emphasized that caste enumeration is an exceptionally sensitive undertaking. He warned that it involves deep-rooted social dynamics and regional variations in caste structures.
"Any shortcomings in these aspects could lead to disputes, inaccuracies, or even exacerbate divisions," Stalin cautioned in the letter. He stressed that the framing of questions, categories, and data collection methodology must be precise, inclusive, and unambiguous to ensure public trust and accuracy.
Two Major Demands to the Central Government
Stalin placed two specific demands before the BJP-led central government to safeguard the process. He insisted that the Centre must consult with state governments, as the data will directly impact state-level policies on crucial areas like:
- Education
- Employment
- Reservations
- Welfare schemes
His concrete proposals include:
1. Forming a consultative mechanism involving chief ministers and state representatives to discuss and refine the guidelines for caste enumeration.
2. Exercising due diligence in designing the framework, including pilot testing where necessary, to ensure the process's sensitivity and the data's ultimate reliability for advancing social justice.
Stalin recalled a resolution passed by the Tamil Nadu state assembly supporting caste enumeration, saying the Centre's decision "vindicates our consistent advocacy for evidence-based social justice."
