Book Launch: New Book Demands Caste Census to Strengthen Social Justice in India

New Delhi- The book “Caste Census and Deepening of Social Justice” was formally launched at the Speakers’ Hall of the Constitution Club of India, New Delhi, under the aegis of the All India OBC Students Association (AIOBCSA). The volume is edited by G. Kiran Kumar, National President of AIOBCSA, and Dr. Vahini Billu. The book brings together the perspectives of policymakers, academicians, bureaucrats, researchers, and students on the necessity of a caste census and its crucial role in strengthening social justice in India.

The book was jointly released by Lok Sabha MP Mallu Ravi; Rajya Sabha MPs P. Wilson, R. Krishnaiah, and Sanjay Singh; OBC rights leader Ratna Sethupathi; former MP Rapolu Ananda Bhaskar; Prof. Suraj Mandal; Prof. Sandeep Yadav; and Advocate Shashank Ratnoo. On the occasion, the speakers emphasized that conducting a caste census is essential for strengthening social justice in India.

The volume includes chapters by prominent contributors such as Rajya Sabha MP P. Wilson; Prof. Trina Vithayathil, Professor of Global Studies at Providence College (USA); Dr. Ajay Gudavarthy, faculty member at the Centre for Political Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University; and retired IAS officer T. Chiranjeevulu, among others. In addition, several academicians and students have contributed critical analyses on issues such as caste census and representation.

The book carries forewords by noted social philosopher Kancha Ilaiah Shepherd and Alla Ramakrishna, Chairman of the National BC Intellectual Forum. In their forewords, they highlight the importance of conducting a comprehensive caste census to strengthen democratic governance and to ensure equitable distribution of resources and opportunities.

Speaking on the occasion, the editors stated that the growing demand for a caste census is crucial for deepening Indian democracy and advancing social justice. They emphasized that reliable caste-based data would enable evidence-based policymaking, effective implementation of reservations, and meaningful interventions to address the socio-economic inequalities faced by marginalized communities.

Members of Parliament, professors, research scholars, and students from across the country participated in the book launch event and shared their views on the importance of caste-based data. Participants observed that the book would serve as an important intellectual contribution to the ongoing national debate on caste census and social justice.

The editors expressed hope that the book would contribute to more informed public discussions and support the ongoing movement for a caste census and equitable representation in India.