National Leaders Call for Caste Census, Lifting of Reservation Cap at Social Justice Conference

New Delhi, 3rd Dec: Prominent pro-social justice leaders, including Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren, united on Tuesday to call for a caste census, the removal of the 50% cap on reservations, and stronger efforts to advance women’s rights.

Speaking at the third edition of the All India Federation of Social Justice conference in New Delhi, Stalin declared: “Social justice, secular politics, socialism, equality, state autonomy, and federalism are our objectives. We must unite and fight for these causes.”

Stalin criticized the BJP for linking the women’s reservation bill to the census and delimitation of constituencies, delaying its implementation until after 2029. “The BJP is creating a false impression that it has brought reservation for women, while the reality tells a different story,” he said.

He congratulated DMK MP P. Wilson, who serves as the Federation’s convenor, praising him for prioritizing social justice over politics. Mr. Stalin reiterated his demand for addressing backlog vacancies, introducing reservation in judicial appointments, removing the 50% cap on reservations, and empowering states to devise their own reservation policies.

In his address, Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren emphasized the need to oppose policies like the lateral entry of officers into public service. “This spirit of struggle must reach every corner of the country, involving all people,” he said. Referring to Uttar Pradesh’s former Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav, Mr. Soren acknowledged the struggles of leaders like Mulayam Singh Yadav and M. Karunanidhi in advancing social justice. “The fight for reservation and social justice is far from over,” he added.

Former Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav accused the BJP of planning to fill bureaucratic vacancies with candidates affiliated with the RSS under the guise of lateral entry while ignoring unfilled vacancies in reserved categories. “We need to remain vigilant and united to counter such attempts,” he said. Mr. Yadav also expressed confidence in his alliance’s ability to win elections in Delhi and Bihar.

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah spoke about his government’s efforts for tillers, women, and OBCs, highlighting initiatives like providing special status to OBC nomads and promoting education for their children. He stressed the need for unity to strengthen India. “Despite our cultural differences, Tamil Nadu and Jammu and Kashmir must work together for a strong and united India,” he said.

CPI leader and former MP Brinda Karat highlighted rising inequalities under the current central government. “Our Constitution, once a global model, now presides over one of the most unequal societies. The caste system thrives under this regime,” she said, demanding the removal of the Supreme Court’s arbitrary 50% cap on reservations.

Dravidar Kazhagam General Secretary K. Veeramani emphasized the importance of reservation in achieving social and national integration. “Reservation is not a concession; it is our birthright, guaranteed by the Constitution. It is essential for justice and equality,” he said.

MDMK General Secretary Vaiko reiterated that caste census data is vital for developing inclusive policies. He warned that the government’s push for “one nation, one election” could lead to divisive consequences, similar to the Soviet Union’s collapse.

Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) President and MP Thol Thirumavalavan called the caste census critical for achieving meaningful social justice. “Without it, our objectives remain incomplete,” he said.

Prominent attendees included DMK MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi, TMC MP Mahua Moitra, NCP MP Fauzia Tahseen Ahmed Khan, Manidhaneya Makkal Katchi President M.H. Jawahirullah, and Kongunadu Makkal Desiya Katchi General Secretary E.R. Eswaran.