Maha Assembly passes resolution for caste-based Census

The Maharashtra Legislative Assembly on Wednesday passed a resolution unanimously urging the central government for a caste-based census to ascertain the population of OBCs across India.

The resolution was passed during the one-day special session of the Maharashtra legislature convened to ratify the Constitution (One hundred and twenty-sixth Amendment) Bill, 2019, to extend the reservation quota for SCs and STs by another 10 years.

This was passed by the Parliament on December 11 last year and states need to ratify it.
After the ratification, Speaker Nana Patole moved a resolution seeking caste-based census across the country.

“The new census would be done in 2021. We need detailed information and data on OBC population so that benefits can be passed on to them... Several delegations have met me seek caste-based census,” said Patole.

However, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Anil Parab felt that it can be finalised in the Business Advisory Committee and taken up during the ensuing Budget Session.

Leader of Opposition Devendra Fadnavis of the BJP said that his party would support whenever it is taken up. Patole, however, felt that it would be late waiting for the Budget Session.

Food and Civil Supplies Minister Chhagan Bhujbal said that it was pending for long and must be taken up. Thereafter, the resolution was unanimously passed by a voice vote.