“Without even conducting a study for the caste-based census, the rulers of Tamil Nadu continue to deceive the people,” said Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) leader Vijay.In a statement, he pointed out that state governments have the constitutional authority to conduct caste-based population surveys. This is why the governments of Bihar and Karnataka have already completed such surveys and have the necessary data in hand. Additionally, the Telangana government has conducted a caste survey within just 50 days and has now taken the next step of discussing the findings in a special legislative assembly session.
The Tamil Nadu government often boasts that other states follow its policies and schemes. However, when it comes to conducting a caste-based census, which is crucial for social justice, why is the government hesitant to follow the example set by these states? There is no answer to this question so far. Even now, the ruling party in Tamil Nadu refuses to conduct a caste survey, continuing to mislead the people.
The current government argues that it does not have the authority to conduct a caste census, claiming that only the central government can undertake such an exercise. However, why can’t the state government at least conduct a caste survey as a preliminary step? Are they going to claim that they lack the authority for that as well?
If so, how was the Telangana government able to carry out this survey? How is it that they could present the report in a special legislative session and hold discussions on it?
Why has Tamil Nadu not conducted even a basic caste survey like other states?
No matter how many such questions are raised, the ruling government continues to evade them with indifference.
At this moment, one thing must be pointed out—both the central and Tamil Nadu governments are on the same page when it comes to avoiding a caste-based census. The people are well aware of this, the TVK leader added.
The only true path to equality and justice for all is through genuine social justice. If the government further delays conducting a caste-based survey, which is a stepping stone for a full-fledged caste census, their false facade will inevitably collapse sooner rather than later, Vijay said.
