New Delhi, 25 November 2024
The OBC Mahasabha, at an event at the Press Club of India, intensified its demand for a nationwide caste census, emphasizing its importance in ensuring social justice and equitable representation for the OBC, SC, and ST communities. The event featured participation from prominent social and political figures, who highlighted the need for accurate data to address inequalities and improve public policies.
The speakers discussed the disparities faced by marginalized communities and how a caste census could provide a foundation for equitable development.
Unequal Access to Reservation:
Despite a 27% reservation for OBCs in central government jobs and educational institutions, they hold only 14.6% of the 4.87 lakh central government posts, falling significantly short of their rightful share.
Low Representation in Higher Education:
OBC representation among professors in IITs, IIMs, and central universities remains minimal, raising concerns about institutional inclusivity.
Policy Reform Through Data:
Accurate data from a caste census would allow policymakers to allocate resources and implement affirmative action programs more effectively for underprivileged communities.
Voices of Prominent Leaders
Former Governor Satyapal Malik in his address, stated, “A caste census is not just about numbers; it is a moral imperative for social justice. The OBC, SC, and ST communities continue to be denied their rightful share in education, employment, and resources. Without accurate data, how can we address these injustices and build an equitable society? The caste census is key to reviewing and improving our reservation policies and welfare schemes.”
Dharmendra Singh Kushwaha, National Core Committee Member of the OBC Mahasabha, remarked, “A caste census will reveal the gaps in resource allocation and representation. It is a tool to measure inequality and hold the system accountable.”
Delhi State President Veer Singh Baghel said, “True development cannot happen without proportional representation. The caste census will provide the data needed to address the systemic exclusion of marginalized communities and promote a just society.”
National Spokesperson A. Vishwajit Ratonia added, “The caste census is not just a demand; it is a movement for justice. Without accurate data, inequality will persist, and the voices of the marginalized will continue to be ignored.”
The Case for a Caste Census
The OBC Mahasabha outlined the critical need for a caste census:
1. To reveal the true socio-economic conditions of the backward classes.
2. To ensure fair distribution of resources and representation in education and employment.
3. To serve as a foundation for data-driven policy reforms that address inequalities and uplift marginalized communities.
Dr. Asmita Singh, President, Woman Cell, OBC Mahasabha, concluded the event with a vote of thanks, stating, “I demand the immediate roll-out of the caste-based census in the country.”
Conclusion and Call to Action
The event concluded with a resounding call to action, as the OBC Mahasabha demanded the immediate implementation of a nationwide caste census. The organization warned that failure to address this critical issue would lead to widespread protests and mobilization by the OBC community to secure their rights.