Hyderabad- The All India OBC Students Association is hosting a National Seminar on Caste Census and Social Justice at the University of Hyderabad. The event aims to facilitate discussions among academicians, intellectuals, political leaders, and social activists on critical issues surrounding caste census.

G Kiran Kumar, National President of AIOBCSA, stated that the event will serve as a platform for diverse voices to converge and deliberate on pressing matters related to caste demographics. The seminar will provide insights into the complexities of caste census and address broader social justice concerns.

N Saikiran, AIOBCSA National Secretary, and one of the organizers highlighted the esteemed lineup of participants, including prominent policymakers such as Sam Pitroda and Yogendra Yadav, and faculty members from renowned institutions like Jawaharlal Nehru University, Delhi University, and Benaras Hindu University.

The event was conducted both in-person at the University of Hyderabad and in virtual mode, allowing wider participation and engagement.

Dr. Ambedkar Supported the Caste Census Addressing the inaugural session, Dr. K. Veeramani said that the caste census will deepen social justice and uphold the broader principles of the Constitution. He emphasized that Dr. B.R. Ambedkar supported the caste census in the book "Who were the Shudras?". Professor Yogendra Yadav, who joined the seminar online, stressed that the focus should extend beyond reservation to address economic and social disparities.

Professor E. Venkatesu from the Political Science department of the University of Hyderabad criticized both the Congress and the BJP, stating that "Both national parties - Congress and the Bhartiya Janta Party have done injustice to OBCs and should conduct a caste census to reduce democratic deficit."

Caste Survey Kickstarted in Andhra Pradesh The seminar coincided with Andhra Pradesh becoming the second state, after Bihar, to conduct a caste survey. The survey, initiated in the Vishakapatnam district, is scheduled to last until February 15th, 2024.

Speaking to The Mooknayak, G. Kiran Kumar, the President of All India OBC Students Association, expressed his approval of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister's decision to conduct the caste census. He described it as a historical step to bring justice to OBCs in Andhra Pradesh. The AIOBCSA also demanded an increase in backward classes and minorities reservations from 29% to 50% based on the social educational backwardness data collected through the caste census.

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