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AT A TIME when the Opposition has adopted caste census as a key issue, the RSS Monday indicated its support for the same, while adding that it should not be used for political or electoral purposes.
It also said that no step in the direction of sub-classification of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes should be taken without the consensus of the communities concerned. Political parties, including the BJP, have been wary of taking a stand on the issue given the opposition to it from SC/ST groups.
Addressing a press conference, RSS publicity in-charge Sunil Ambekar said: “The RSS thinks that definitely, for all welfare activities, particularly those targeting such communities or castes which are lagging behind – for whom special attention is needed – for that, if sometimes the government needs the numbers, it is a well-established practice. Earlier also, it (the government) has taken (such data), and so it can do it again. But it should be done only for the welfare of those communities and castes. It should not be used as a political tool for elections. So we put this forth with a line of caution for everyone.”
Ambekar was talking to the media on the last day of the three-day Akhil Bharatiya Samnvay Baithak of the RSS being held in Palakkad, Kerala.
“As a Hindu society, caste and caste relations are sensitive issues. It is an important issue for our national unity and integrity. So, it should be dealt with very sensitively and not on the basis of elections or electoral practices and politics,” he said.
The BJP-led NDA government has been facing demands for a caste census from not just the Opposition – particularly Congress leader Rahul Gandhi – but also its own allies such as the JD(U) and Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas). The JD(U)-led government in Bihar conducted a caste survey in the state last year.
While the BJP has not opposed the demand for a caste census openly, it has also not made any commitment.
The RSS tacit support for a caste census is also significant as the BJP has earlier slammed it as a Congress attempt to “divide the Hindu society”, contrasting it to its own efforts to “consolidate the Hindus” under the leadership of Narendra Modi.
However, the BJP project took a hit in the recent Lok Sabha polls, where the Opposition hit home with its message that a big-majority Modi government could alter the Constitution and reservations, weaning away the SC/ST vote.
The RSS articulation of the caste census – as a welfare move – now lays down a way the Modi government could find a middle ground, to appease the diverse communities within the Hindu fold.
On sub-classification of SC/STs, an issue back on the table after the Supreme Court said states had the power to carry out the same for the purpose of reservations, Ambekar said: “We believe that Constitutional reservation is very important. It has always been supported by the RSS. What was discussed in the Court was a very sensitive issue. A call should be taken by the government and legal authorities. But it should be ensured that all the communities concerned… those enjoying the benefits of reservation… there should be an activity of consensus (building). Before that, no such step should be taken.”
Ambekar stressed that the Sangh works continuously for Hindu unity, as well as national unity and integrity. “We are celebrating the 75th year of our Constitution. Our Constitution speaks well about justice, equality, fraternity. But there is an underlining that fraternity should be there, ensuring integrity of the nation,” he said.
The statement is being seen in the light of the recent Bharat Bandh held by various Dalit organisations protesting against the Supreme Court order. BJP allies LJP and JD(U) have reservations over this issue.
By seeking a consensus, the RSS has indicated that action may not be taken any time soon on the issue.
On the Opposition using the caste census issue to put pressure on the government, Ambekar said the Sangh is working on the ground to thwart “any designs to divide society” and putting renewed focus on its samajik samrasta (social harmony) campaign.
“We are concerned about the unity and integrity of society. You are aware of the Panch Parivartan issues (the five resolutions of the RSS for its centenary year). Social Harmony (one of the resolutions) is being taken very seriously. It will be taken up at mass level. It will be more inclusive… different organisations, different religious and social organisations, different community leaders.”
