#168: Bihar Caste Census Impacts

Pointers of GS2 Polity

Bihar Caste Census data is public

How will it impact Indian Polity?

1. Renewed BC mobilization

• Pressurize ruling party to hold nationwide backward caste census

• Becomes critical in run up to general elections 2024

2. Amplify clamor to:

• increase OBC quote beyond 27%

• seek quota within quota for EBCs

3. Ripple effect

• Push other states to carry out caste census

• Offers a counter in hands of opposition

4. Judicial angle

• Reopen debate on 50% ceiling on reservation as impose by SC in landmark ruling of Indira Sawhney Case (1992)

• SC has thwarted attempts to alter this ceiling in last 30 years