Union Minister and Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) chief Chirag Paswan on Sunday expressed his support for the caste census, marking a significant stance in contrast to his BJP ally's position on the issue.
During a press conference, Paswan affirmed, “My party (the LJP) has always maintained a clear stand in favor of the caste census.”
As the Minister of Food Processing Industries, Paswan highlighted the importance of a caste-based census for better governance.
He stated, “There are many reasons why the caste census should be conducted by the Central government. Both state and central governments often design schemes with the beneficiaries’ caste in mind, aiming to integrate people from backward classes into the mainstream.”
He further explained that accurate population data is crucial for the effective allocation of resources.
“The government needs precise information about the caste population to ensure the proper allocation of funds,” he added.
Earlier this week, Paswan also voiced his opposition to lateral entry appointments in government jobs, describing the practice as “completely wrong.”
His remarks on lateral entry, which involves recruiting professionals from the private sector into the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), contrast with the BJP's broader stance.
This divergence between LJP and BJP on key issues like the caste census and lateral entry comes at a time when the BJP has been opposing the Opposition INDIA bloc's demand for a nationwide caste census.
The Congress has also made caste census a key issue, with its manifesto for the Lok Sabha elections promising to conduct a socio-economic caste census if voted to power.
Senior leader Rahul Gandhi, addressing a rally in April, had stressed that a Congress-led government would prioritise a survey to assess wealth distribution across the nation.
Follow us
