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Key Points

Prashant Kishor has raised critical concerns about the limitations of merely conducting a caste census without substantive follow-up actions. He argues that collecting demographic data is meaningless unless it leads to targeted policy interventions and genuine social transformation. Kishor specifically pointed out that despite Bihar's caste census revealing low Dalit educational outcomes, no new government schemes have emerged. His critique extends to political leaders like Tejashwi Yadav, whom he suggests lack a deep understanding of true socialist principles.

Key Points: Prashant Kishor Critiques Caste Census Beyond Data Collection

  • Caste census data needs concrete action to transform social realities
  • Kishor criticizes political approach to demographic insights
  • Political leaders use census as tool rather than genuine change mechanism
2 min read

Just conducting exercise won't change social realities: Prashant Kishor on caste census

Kishor challenges caste census effectiveness, argues data must translate to real social change and meaningful policy implementation

"Just buying a book won't make you a scholar; you have to read and understand it. - Prashant Kishor"

Patna, May 1

After the Central Government approved the caste census, Jan Suraaj Party (JSP) founder Prashant Kishor reiterated that just conducting the exercise will not rectify social problems.

While supporting the principle of such data collection, Kishor emphasised on Thursday that surveys alone won't improve social realities unless followed by concrete action.

"Jan Suraaj has always maintained that there is no harm in conducting surveys or censuses that offer better societal insights. But the condition of the people will not change just by conducting a caste census," Kishor said.

Kishor pointed out that even as the Bihar caste census revealed only 3 per cent of Dalit children cleared Class 12, no new government schemes have been implemented in the two years since its publication.

"Just buying a book won't make you a scholar; you have to read and understand it. Similarly, collecting data without acting on it is meaningless," he added.

Kishor took a jab at RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, saying, "Even if you take coaching on socialism for 10 days, you won't be able to say five lines on it without looking at a script."

"Tejashwi talks about socialism, but he doesn't understand its meaning. Socialism in India belongs to Jai Prakash Narayan, Ram Manohar Lohia, and George Fernandes - not to political heirs," he remarked.

Kishor said that for most, the caste census is just a political tool, not a genuine instrument for social transformation.

Earlier, Tejashwi said the move was a "historic victory of the social justice movement," asserting that it validates long-standing demands of socialist forces.

"We went from the Prime Minister to the President for this demand, but were ignored. Now, when the sound of our footsteps reached Delhi, they had to bow down," Tejashwi said.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the "historic" step, saying, "It is a matter of great happiness. The decision will help understand the demographic structure and ensure focused policies for uplifting different sections of society."

- IANS

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Reader Comments

Here are 6 diverse Indian perspective comments for the article:
A
Amit K.
Kishor makes a valid point. We've had reservation for decades but has it really changed ground realities? Quality education and job creation matter more than just counting heads. Politicians use caste as a vote bank but do little for actual upliftment.
P
Priya M.
Data is important but action is everything! 👏 The Bihar example shows how surveys collect dust while children suffer. Instead of political mudslinging, all parties should come together to create practical solutions. Education first, politics later!
R
Rahul S.
Why is Kishor suddenly acting like a social reformer? He's a political strategist who worked for all parties. The caste census is a good first step - you can't solve a problem without measuring it properly. But yes, implementation is key.
S
Sunita P.
As a teacher in rural UP, I see caste discrimination daily. The 3% Dalit graduation rate breaks my heart 💔. We need special schools, scholarships AND social awareness. Politicians just want headlines, not hard work of changing mindsets.
V
Vikram J.
Tejashwi's "historic victory" comment shows how out of touch politicians are. For common people, it's about schools, hospitals and jobs - not political one-upmanship. The real heroes are silent workers actually helping communities, not those giving speeches.
N
Neha T.
While I agree with Kishor's point about action, we shouldn't dismiss data collection. Many welfare schemes fail because they're not targeted properly. The census can help if used responsibly. But yes, the proof will be in the pudding - let's see actual policy changes!

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