Bihar’s caste census to promote better social justice

Why in the News?

The data of caste-based survey known as the Bihar Jaati Adharit Ganana, conducted by Bihar government was recently released

Why do we need a caste-based survey?

1. To provide accurate and up-to-date data on the distribution and socio-economic status of the various castes and communities in India. 
2. It is essential for evidence-based policy formulation and implementation. 
3. It helps policymakers to identify marginalised and disadvantaged groups and frame targeted interventions to uplift them.
4. It enables recognising and quantifying the extent of historical injustices and disparities that exist in society.

Accuracy for efficacy:

1. Government can develop more effective and targeted welfare programmes tailored to the specific needs of different caste groups and most vulnerable sections of society. 
2. Regular caste-based census data can help to track the progress of evaluation of the effectiveness of policies and programmes of different caste groups over time.
3. Enables government to make necessary adjustments to policies when needed.
4. It helps ensure fair representation of marginalised communities in government, education, and employment. 
5. A caste-based census promotes transparency and accountability in government efforts to promote social justice.
6. Without accurate data, the risk of misusing caste certificates for personal gain or political purposes will be on rise.

Perceived outcomes of caste-based data:

1. Caste census is necessary to address historical injustices & marginalisation and promote social justice though it is debated that it will perpetuate and deepen caste divisions.
2. The Indian Constitution recognises the existence of caste-based discrimination and inequality and places obligation on the government to take affirmative actions to implement and enforce these provisions.
3. It ensures committed government intervention as discrimination based on caste is a violation of human rights and government needs to act to protect them to all its citizens.
4. It fosters social cohesion as government can utilise caste data to prevent a sense of inequality and injustice among marginalised groups due to caste discrimination.
5. Government intervention through targeted affirmative action policies can help bridge economic disparities, as certain caste groups face limited access to education and employment opportunities.
6. By enforcing anti-discrimination laws and promoting fair employment practices, discrimination in employment limiting job opportunities for certain caste groups can be prevented.
7. Can improve political representation especially for Dalits and other marginalised caste groups who have historically been under-represented in political positions.