In a landmark policy shift, the Indian government has announced that caste data will officially be included in the upcoming national population census, expected to take place next year. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw confirmed the decision following a Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs meeting, stating that the enumeration will be carried out in a “transparent” manner. The move marks a major reversal by the ruling BJP, which had previously been hesitant on the issue, and comes in the wake of strong pressure from opposition parties advocating for caste-based representation and data.

Ashwini Vaishnaw used the announcement to launch a strong criticism of the Congress party, accusing it of historically opposing the inclusion of caste data in national surveys. Citing the example of a 2010 committee formed under the UPA government, he alleged that the Congress manipulated the matter for political advantage but never took concrete action. He also dismissed recent caste surveys conducted by states like Bihar, labeling them as politically motivated and legally questionable, asserting that only the Union government has the authority to carry out such an enumeration.

This decision comes ahead of key elections in caste-sensitive states like Bihar, where over 60% of the population belongs to backward or extremely backward communities. Bihar’s 2023 caste survey, led by Nitish Kumar’s government, had significant political consequences, triggering similar demands from other states and sparking national debate. The BJP, wary of alienating voters, has gradually shifted its stance, with senior leaders like Amit Shah previously signaling cautious support. As the 2025 elections draw near, the inclusion of caste data is poised to become a central issue in shaping electoral narratives and social policy frameworks.