If We Can Count Tigers And Elephants, Why Not Castes? Congress Leader Chidambaram Calls For Caste Census With Wildlife Analogy

Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram has emphasized the importance of conducting a caste census, asserting that it is essential for determining reservation quotas for various sections of society.

During a press conference at the Congress' Rajiv Bhawan in Raipur, the former Union minister questioned why a caste census couldn't be conducted when wildlife counts, such as tigers and elephants, are feasible.

As reported by NDTV, Chidambaram stressed the need to have data on Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, OBCs, and non-backward classes to accurately allocate reservations, especially for the 10% reservation for economically weaker sections (EWS).

Responding to queries about loan waivers for farmers, Chidambaram highlighted the significance of making agriculture profitable for its sustainability.

He noted that in Chhattisgarh, where farming contributes significantly to the state's GDP, it is crucial to provide relief to farmers who often incur debts.

Regarding the issue of Naxalism, Chidambaram expressed the Congress's commitment to addressing this challenge at the national level, giving credit to the Bhupesh Baghel government in Chhattisgarh for its efforts in reducing Naxalite violence.

He underlined the need for a non-partisan approach to combat Naxalism, emphasizing that the fight against this menace would continue if the Congress comes to power at the national level.

Chidambaram also highlighted the welfare schemes and promises made by the Baghel government in Chhattisgarh, assuring that these commitments would be fulfilled if the Congress retains power.

These promises include paddy procurement, agriculture loan waivers, a caste census, housing for families, incentives for tendu leaf collectors, additional MSP for minor forest produce, and free education in government schools and colleges.