Kochi: The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the ideological mentor of the BJP, has expressed its view on the caste census debate. On Monday, the RSS acknowledged that a caste census could be beneficial for welfare activities but cautioned against its use for electoral advantages. This statement comes in the midst of a vigorous campaign led by Rahul Gandhi advocating for a nationwide caste census.

RSS Prachar Pramukh (chief spokesperson) Sunil Ambekar, speaking after a three-day conclave in Palakkad, Kerala, stated, "Caste census is a very sensitive issue, and it is important for our national unity and integrity. It should be dealt with very seriously. Sometimes, the government needs the numbers and has conducted similar exercises in the past." However, he emphasized that such a census should be used solely for the welfare of the communities concerned and should not be exploited for political gains.

The RSS's comments have elicited criticism from the Congress party, which accused the BJP and RSS of opposing the welfare of marginalized communities. Congress tweeted, "RSS has openly opposed the caste census. RSS says - caste census is not good for society. It is clear from this statement that BJP and RSS do not want to conduct caste census. They do not want to give Dalits, backward classes, and tribals their rights."

Congress reiterated its commitment to conducting a caste-based survey, with Rahul Gandhi, a strong advocate for the census, promising to carry it out if his party wins. The Congress manifesto for the Lok Sabha elections included this promise, linking the census to the protection of the Constitution.

The push for a national caste census intensified following the release of a statewide caste survey by Nitish Kumar's Janata Dal (United) in Bihar. The survey, published last October, revealed that over 80 percent of the state's population belongs to extremely backward classes.

Amid the ongoing debate, the RSS has clarified that it is not opposed to the government carrying out a nationwide caste census. Ambekar stated, "We believe it must be used for the all-encompassing progress of society, and while doing so, all sides must ensure that social harmony and integrity are not disturbed."

The clarification followed controversy sparked by Shridhar Gadge, an RSS functionary, who criticized the caste census as a "futile exercise" that would benefit only certain individuals. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, addressing the controversy, stated that the BJP had never opposed a caste census.

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