- Cooperation on Caste Census Inclusion
- Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy
Article Today, Hyderabad:
Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has expressed the state government’s readiness to share its experiences with the central government regarding the inclusion of a caste census during the nationwide population census. He welcomed the central government’s decision to incorporate the caste census and extended his congratulations to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Union Cabinet.
Telangana’s Role Model Census
Speaking at a media conference following the central government’s decision, Chief Minister Reddy emphasized that the caste census conducted in Telangana serves as a role model for the nation. He clarified that the Telangana government is willing to share its expertise without any reservations. He also suggested that the central government should consider the opinions of individual states, given the varying OBC categories across the country.
Suggestions for Central Government
Reddy proposed that the central government should form a committee of ministers to discuss the process with political parties before initiating it nationwide. He also recommended establishing a high-level committee of experts to conduct a thorough study. He assured that the Telangana government would explain the procedures followed in their caste census, whether the central government invites them or sends its representatives.
Congratulate to Rahul Gandhi
The Chief Minister highlighted that Telangana became the first state in the country to complete a caste census in a transparent and scientific manner, fulfilling the promise made by current Lok Sabha opposition leader Rahul Gandhi during his Kanyakumari to Kashmir foot march. He specifically congratulated Rahul Gandhi for his commitment.
Call for Central Government Clarity
Reddy urged the central government to announce the commencement and completion dates of the population census. He also suggested that the government convene a meeting of all political parties to discuss and seek advice on how to overcome the challenges in conducting the caste census.
Inclusive Process Recommended
He advised that the central government should consider opinions from states, political parties, civil societies, and the public. He suggested finalizing the modalities of the caste census only after these consultations. He estimated that the census could be completed within a year.
State’s Collaborative Approach
Reddy reiterated that conducting the caste census is the central government’s responsibility, which is why the state government passed a resolution and submitted it to the center. He emphasized that the state government views its cooperation with the central government on this matter as a duty, without any political or egoistic considerations.
Telangana’s Census as a Guide
The Chief Minister explained the transparent and scientific methods used in Telangana’s caste census, suggesting it could serve as a guide for the nationwide caste census. He urged the central government to consider their experiences.
