Daijiworld Media Network- Patna

Patna, May 2: With the Central government's decision to initiate a nationwide caste-based census, a political ripple has swept across Bihar, where a growing number of residents are hailing the move as a strategic masterstroke by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

In ground interactions conducted by IANS in Patna on Thursday, the public sentiment was overwhelmingly in favour of the Prime Minister. Citizens labelled the decision not only “historic” but also “politically astute,” anticipating its significant influence on the upcoming 2025 Bihar Assembly elections in favour of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

Rakesh Raghav, a native of Patna City, did not mince words. “It is a highly appreciable decision by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. For the first time since independence, a caste census is being conducted — a real step toward ensuring representation based on population. This move promotes social justice and clearly strengthens the NDA’s position,” he said. Raghav dismissed opposition claims that the move was influenced by political pressure, particularly from the Congress and RJD. Instead, he attributed foundational credit to Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. “Nitish Kumar spoke about the importance of caste census way back in 1994. The PM’s decision reflects that long-standing vision.”

Echoing similar views, Ramanand, another Patna resident, stressed the socio-economic significance of the initiative. “This is a bold step. The biggest beneficiaries will be the poor from the backward castes. While RJD may currently enjoy a caste arithmetic advantage, this move is set to recalibrate voter sentiments.”

In Masaudhi, Patna district, Ram Awagya Sharma lauded the Prime Minister’s decisiveness. “Opposition parties clamoured for a caste census but failed to deliver during their tenure. Now that the NDA has acted, they are scrambling to take credit.”

From Saran district, Baby Kumari Ambedkar added a sharp critique of rival schemes. “It is a welcome step. Now caste groups will receive their rightful share based on numbers. As for RJD’s so-called ‘Mai-Bahin Maan Yojana’ — it seems designed more for Rabri Devi and Misa Bharti than for the common people.”

Srinath Singh alias Munna from Patna underscored the larger implications. “This census is going to alter the political narrative not just in Bihar but nationally. Finally, we will have authentic data on caste populations — a game-changer for policy and politics.”

While opposition parties are seen jockeying to stake moral credit, voters on the ground appear sceptical of their past inaction. Many are questioning why the very parties now advocating for a caste census failed to act when they were in power.

As the political winds shift in Bihar, one thing is clear — the caste census has emerged as a defining issue, with Prime Minister Modi’s decision resonating deeply among the people.