Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Jun 16: The Union Government on Monday officially notified the start of India’s next population census, scheduled for 2027. This will be the country’s 16th census and notably, the first to include a comprehensive nationwide caste enumeration since 1931.

The move has been hailed as “historic” by the Janata Dal (United), a BJP ally, which praised the government for reviving a long-suppressed demand. “It’s a tight slap to those who ruled for over 60 years without the will to empower people through data,” said JDU spokesperson Rajeev Ranjan Prasad, crediting the Bihar caste survey and Prime Minister Modi’s leadership for bringing the issue to the national stage.

The last census was conducted in 2011. Repeated delays since 2021 due to the pandemic and administrative concerns had raised questions about the timeline.

Welcoming the notification, Congress MP Sukhdeo Bhagat called it a positive step but cautioned against empty symbolism. “This must be backed with proper budgetary provisions. And let's not forget, Rahul Gandhi’s consistent voice for caste census has resonated with the people,” he said.

The caste enumeration is expected to play a crucial role in shaping welfare policy and political narratives, especially with a series of state elections approaching. Analysts view the move as part of the Centre’s broader strategy to deepen its outreach among OBCs and other marginalized communities.