India caste census faces administrative dispute over data collection

Disputes have emerged regarding the methodology for collecting caste-wise data in India’s upcoming population census. While the central government approved the inclusion of caste details for the 2027 census via the Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs on April 30, 2025, administrative disagreements have surfaced between the Office of the Registrar General of India (ORGI) and the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.

Reports indicate a discrepancy in the minutes of a consultative meeting held on June 1. Initially, draft minutes suggested the Ministry did not maintain a specific list of castes due to a lack of constitutional mandate. However, officials argued this misrepresented the Ministry’s position, as the National Commission for Backward Classes maintains an OBC list that could be utilized. The Ministry has since requested corrections to the meeting minutes to accurately reflect its stance on data sharing and the availability of existing lists.