YS Jagan Reddy Endorses Caste Census in India

YSRCP leader YS Jagan Mohan Reddy expressed support for the Indian government’s recent decision to include caste enumeration in the upcoming national census, highlighting its potential to drive targeted welfare programs and promote the development of underserved communities. Reddy emphasized the significance of a caste-based census in addressing the needs of backward and marginalized groups, stating that it would contribute to both economic and social advancement. He noted that Andhra Pradesh had been proactive under his leadership, having passed a resolution in November 2021 to initiate the country’s first BC caste-wise enumeration. The exercise was conducted through village and ward secretariats in January 2024. Initially focused on backward classes, the survey was subsequently broadened to encompass all communities. However, the findings have not been released to the public. Reddy described this initiative as a vital step in the pursuit of genuine social justice and inclusive progress across all societal segments. This announcement follows the central government’s declaration on Wednesday that caste enumeration will be integrated into the next census and conducted with full transparency.