New Delhi: The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has signaled its support for a caste-based census, creating a new challenge for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to oppose the measure amidst mounting opposition pressure. In a recent development, the RSS expressed its positive stance on the issue but emphasized that the census should not be used for political or electoral gains. The organization also stated that any steps towards sub-categorization of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes should only be taken with the consent of the concerned communities.
This announcement was made by Sunil Ambekar, the head of RSS publicity, during the final day of the three-day All India Coordination Meeting in Palakkad, Kerala.
The demand for a caste-based census has been gaining momentum, particularly among parties within the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA), as well as certain National Democratic Alliance (NDA) allies. Parties like the Janata Dal (United) and Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas), which are part of the NDA government, have also shown a favorable attitude towards the caste census. Several BJP leaders have expressed support for the idea at various times.
Despite the growing calls for such a census, the BJP has not officially opposed it. However, the opposition has sought to create a perception among the public that the BJP is against both the caste-based census and caste-based reservations, especially by promising a caste census in their manifesto for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. This narrative has led to confusion and concern among the electorate, with some fearing that a BJP-led government might abolish reservations, a factor that contributed to the party’s reduced seats in certain areas.
With the RSS now giving its green light to the caste-based census, it is likely that the BJP-led central government may soon introduce a format for conducting it. The RSS, by labeling the caste census as a welfare measure, has effectively provided the BJP with a way to address the diverse communities within Hinduism and take a middle path to satisfy various factions.
Ambekar emphasized that the RSS has consistently worked towards Hindu unity as well as national integrity. He highlighted that as the nation celebrates the 75th anniversary of its Constitution, it is essential to uphold the principles of justice, equality, and fraternity. He also stressed that brotherhood is crucial for ensuring the integrity of the nation.
Historically, the RSS has been associated with the belief in the Varna system, which has led many to view the organization as a proponent of Brahminical order. However, RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat made a surprising statement during a book release event in 2022, asserting that concepts like Varna and caste should be completely discarded. Bhagwat emphasized that anything that causes division should be thrown out entirely.
RSS supports a caste-based census, challenging BJP’s stance amid opposition pressure, while emphasizing welfare and national unity.
