India’s caste system is controversial and discriminatory. So why is it being included in the next census?

CNN - May 16th, 2025

The Indian government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has announced that the upcoming national census will include caste data for the first time since 1931. This decision aims to address structural inequalities and is seen as a response to the heightened demand for caste data to inform social policies. However, the announcement has revived debates on whether such a census will help uplift disadvantaged groups or further entrench social divisions. The government claims that counting caste will strengthen the social fabric, but details on data collection remain unclear.

The proposal comes amid political maneuvering, particularly after Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) lost its parliamentary majority in the 2024 national elections, partly due to opposition parties gaining support from underprivileged castes. Critics argue the move is politically motivated, especially with upcoming state elections in sensitive regions like Bihar. While some see the caste census as a tool for social justice, others fear it could exacerbate existing tensions. The census data could reshape affirmative action policies, but also spark backlash from privileged castes opposed to quota expansions.

India Narendra Modi Social Justice Affirmative Action Census Caste System Indian Government Bharatiya Janata Party (Bjp) Political Maneuvering

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RATING

6.8

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article provides a comprehensive overview of the decision to include caste in the upcoming Indian census, highlighting its historical context, political motivations, and potential implications. It is generally accurate, though it could benefit from more detailed information on the methodology and timing of the census. The article is balanced, presenting multiple perspectives, but could include more voices from marginalized communities. While it cites credible sources, it lacks specific data to substantiate some claims. The writing is clear and accessible, making the article easy to read and understand. The topic is timely and of significant public interest, with the potential to influence policy debates and public opinion. Overall, the article effectively engages with a controversial issue, though it could enhance its impact by providing more concrete data and examples.

Accuracy

The story presents a generally accurate portrayal of the caste system and the political context surrounding the decision to include caste in the upcoming Indian census. It correctly identifies the historical background of the caste system and its influence on various aspects of life in India, such as social interactions and job opportunities. The article accurately notes that the last caste census was conducted in 1931 and that the Indian government has moved away from caste enumeration post-independence to reduce its social impact. However, the article could provide more specific details about the methodology and timing of the new census, which remain unspecified. Additionally, while the article mentions political motivations, it could benefit from more concrete evidence to support claims of political expediency.

Balance

The article offers a balanced view by presenting multiple perspectives on the caste census issue. It includes opinions from government officials, opposition leaders, and experts like Poonam Muttreja and Sonalde Desai. The story discusses both the potential benefits of a caste census, such as addressing structural inequalities, and the concerns that it might deepen social divisions. However, it could improve by including more voices from the communities directly affected by the caste system, particularly those from marginalized castes, to provide a fuller picture of the on-the-ground impact.

Clarity

The article is well-structured and clearly written, making it easy for readers to follow the narrative. It logically progresses from the historical background of the caste system to the current political context and the implications of the caste census decision. The language is neutral and accessible, avoiding jargon and complex terminology. However, the article could enhance clarity by providing more detailed explanations of key concepts, such as the specific categories used in affirmative action policies.

Source quality

The article cites credible sources such as government statements, expert opinions, and political leaders' comments, which adds to its reliability. However, it lacks direct citations or references to specific studies or data that could substantiate claims about the current state of caste-based disparities or the effectiveness of past affirmative action policies. Including such data would enhance the article's credibility and provide a stronger foundation for its claims.

Transparency

The article provides a general overview of the context and motivations behind the caste census decision but lacks transparency in certain areas. It does not clearly explain the methodology for collecting caste data or the specific timeline for the census. Additionally, while the article mentions political motivations, it does not delve into the potential conflicts of interest or the specific political dynamics at play. Greater transparency in these areas would improve the article's overall clarity and trustworthiness.