Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, appreciating the government’s move to conduct a caste-based census alongside the national population count. Stalin emphasized the importance of this decision in generating accurate data to address social disparities and ensure effective welfare program delivery. He highlighted Tamil Nadu’s longstanding demand for a caste census, supported by resolutions passed in the state Assembly.
Stalin acknowledged the sensitivity of conducting a caste census due to diverse social structures across states and cautioned against potential social tensions if not handled carefully. He stressed the need for a well-designed census process to maintain public trust, emphasizing the importance of clear question framing, category classification, and data collection methodology. The Chief Minister underscored the significant impact of census outcomes on state policies related to education, employment, reservations, and welfare schemes.
Proposing the establishment of a high-level advisory council comprising chief ministers and Union Territory representatives, Stalin aimed to ensure comprehensive consultations and guidelines for the caste-based census. He urged the Centre to prioritize the process’s sensitivity and data reliability, suggesting pilot studies as necessary safeguards. Stalin concluded by expressing confidence that this initiative, led by the Prime Minister, would strengthen India’s commitment to equality, inclusion, and federal principles.
