Government Declares Caste Enumeration Decision Records Exempt from RTI Requests

The Cabinet Secretariat has invoked provisions of the Right to Information (RTI) Act to withhold documents pertaining to discussions among various ministries about caste enumeration for the upcoming Census 2027.

This decision comes in response to inquiries from stakeholders seeking transparency regarding the governments stance and planning on the inclusion of caste data in the national census. The RTI Act allows public authorities to deny access to certain records if their release is deemed to compromise sensitive government deliberations or national interests.

Caste enumeration has been a contentious topic in Indian society and politics, with proponents arguing that it will provide essential data for social justice and targeted welfare programs, while opponents express concerns over its implications for social cohesion and identity politics. The last comprehensive caste-based census was conducted in 1931. Since then, there have been various demands and political movements advocating for its inclusion in subsequent censuses.

The 2027 Census is considered crucial as it will provide updated demographic data and address long-standing issues related to social equity. As the government prepares for this significant undertaking, the discussion surrounding caste enumeration is expected to remain at the forefront of public discourse.