RSS Backs Collection of Caste Data But Warns Against Its Use as 'Political Tool for Electoral Gain'

The collection of caste data has been a prevalent and “well-practised” effort by the government and while it should always be aimed at uplifting communities, it should never be treated as a “political tool” to gain electorally, the RSS has said, reacting to demands of caste census by opposition parties. Caste and related issues have widely been discussed in the three-day-long Samanvaya Baithak of the RSS being held in Kerala’s Palakkad.

“In Hindu society, caste and caste relations are highly sensitive issues, deeply intertwined with national unity and integrity. We, in Sangh, emphasise that caste data should be used primarily for welfare activities, addressing the specific needs of certain castes and communities. This data must not be exploited as a political tool during elections or for electoral gain,” said Sunil Ambekar, RSS’ Akhil Bharatiya Prachar Pramukh.

He added: “RSS believes that while the government may need precise caste numbers to effectively address the welfare of these communities, this practice, though previously implemented, should be handled with care. The focus should remain on genuine upliftment and support rather than being manipulated for political advantage.”

Pointing out that caste data, if used in a manipulative way, may trigger further societal divide, Ambekar said: “This caution is crucial to ensure that caste issues are treated with the seriousness they deserve, without reducing them to mere elements of electoral strategy.”

On SC’s Observation on Creamy Layer

Reacting to the Supreme Court’s observation of removing creamy layer from reservation, the RSS said that it always supported “constitutional reservation” and also believed that the court’s observations were “sensitive” and can be dealt by building “consensus”.

“The RSS continues to work towards fostering Hindu unity and, by extension, national unity, and integrity. The organisation firmly upholds the values enshrined in the Constitution, particularly those of justice, equality, and fraternity, which are essential to ensuring national cohesion. Fraternity, in the context of national integrity, is crucial, and the RSS stresses on the importance of Constitutional reservations in maintaining social balance. The RSS has always supported the system of reservations as a means of addressing historical inequalities and promoting inclusivity,” said Ambekar.

He added that the organisation recognises that discussions around reservations, particularly those taken up by the courts, are highly sensitive.

“Decisions on such matters should be made carefully by the government and legal authorities. However, we believe that it is essential to ensure that all communities benefiting from reservations are included in the decision-making process. Achieving a consensus with these communities is vital to maintaining trust and ensuring that any decisions reflect their interests and needs,” he said.