The Union Cabinet’s recent decision to conduct a caste-based census has drawn widespread praise from leaders across the political spectrum in Maharashtra, who hailed it as a significant and historic step toward achieving social justice and equality in India.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis welcomed the decision, calling it a “historic move” by the Modi government. “This census will provide accurate data on the social and economic status of various castes, enabling the government to implement more effective and targeted welfare schemes for the upliftment of backward communities,” said Fadnavis. He also noted that the last caste-based census was conducted in 1931, and despite demands raised during the tenure of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, the Congress government failed to implement it fully. “Congress only politicized the issue. It was Prime Minister Modi who took the bold step to make it a reality,” he added.
Deputy Chief Minister and Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde also expressed strong support for the decision, stating that the move would open the doors to social justice. “This is the first time since Independence that such a bold decision has been taken. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has shown true courage,” Shinde said at a press conference in Thane. He emphasized that the census will help the government execute welfare schemes more effectively and fulfill the vision of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar. Shinde also took a swipe at Congress, accusing it of using caste groups merely as vote banks and failing to act on their long-standing demand.
Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar of the NCP echoed similar sentiments, calling the decision “revolutionary.” “It will ensure the rightful entitlements of socially backward and deprived communities and enhance their educational and economic development,” Pawar said. He credited the leadership of PM Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah for fulfilling a demand that had persisted for decades. “Due to the absence of such a census, the government lacked accurate data on the social and economic conditions of non-SC/ST castes, hampering targeted development,” he noted.
From the opposition, Maharashtra Congress President Harshwardhan Sapkal also welcomed the move but credited Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for consistently pushing for the caste-based census. “Rahul Gandhi’s strong stance on social justice compelled the government to act. This decision is a victory for his vision,” Sapkal stated. He urged the Centre to now consider removing the 50% cap on reservations to ensure broader inclusion.
Supriya Sule of NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) also expressed gratitude and reiterated that her party had long demanded such a census. “We raised this issue in Parliament and other forums. The caste-wise data will help the government address various demands concerning reservation and social equity,” she said, hoping the process will begin promptly and conclude within a defined timeframe.
