Congress Chief Urges Action on Telangana Model of Caste Survey
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has written a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi urging the government to implement a caste census on the lines of the Telangana model. The letter comes in the wake of the central government’s recent announcement to conduct a caste-based survey.
Key Demands in the Letter
In the letter, Kharge made three key demands:
- Removal of the 50% cap on reservation in educational and government sectors.
- Extension of reservation to Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in private educational institutions under Article 15(5) of the Constitution.
- Consultations with all political parties before finalizing the modalities of the caste census.
Caste Census is Not Divisive, Says Kharge
Kharge strongly defended the caste census, stating, “It cannot be considered divisive. Such a process empowers the marginalized and ensures backward and oppressed communities receive their rightful place in society.” He emphasized that a caste census is essential for social and economic justice and would promote equality of opportunity, as envisioned in the Preamble of the Constitution.
Reference to Pahalgam Attack and PM’s Alleged U-turn
The letter also mentioned the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, highlighting the nation’s outrage. In this context, Kharge accused PM Modi of making a U-turn on the caste census issue despite the gravity of national concerns.
Jairam Ramesh Shares Letter, Supports Kharge’s Stand
Congress leader Jairam Ramesh posted the letter on X (formerly Twitter), supporting Kharge’s demands. He noted that the letter was written following the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting held on May 2, 2025.
Conclusion
The letter marks a significant political development as the debate around caste-based surveys and reservation policy intensifies ahead of national elections. Congress has positioned the caste census as a key tool for achieving equity and inclusion for marginalized communities.
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