PATNA: In a recent development, the Patna High Court has issued a stay order on the caste-based census in Bihar. The decision comes as a relief to many who were concerned about the impact of such a census on the social fabric of the state.
The Bihar government had earlier announced its plans to conduct a caste-based census in the state. However, several organizations and individuals had raised objections to this move, citing concerns about the divisive nature of such a census.
According to news agency ANI, Patna High Court stays caste based census.
बिहार: पटना हाईकोर्ट ने जाति आधारित जनगणना पर रोक लगाई। pic.twitter.com/DS7JXMabqv
— ANI_HindiNews (@AHindinews) May 4, 2023
The Patna High Court took cognizance of these concerns and issued a stay order on the caste-based census.
According to the report, the court observed that Rs 500 crore will be spent on the caste census, which will be a misuse of money. That’s why the court has agreed that this policy is against the constitution, statute & census Act of 1948…: Dinu Kumar, Petitioner, Advocate.
#WATCH | Bihar: The Patna High Court has put a stay on the Caste-based census in Bihar
— ANI (@ANI) May 4, 2023
Rs 500 crore will be spent on the caste census, which will be a misuse of money. That’s why the court has agreed that this policy is against the constitution, statute & census Act of 1948…:… pic.twitter.com/o27tzTmSg8
The decision has been welcomed by many, who see it as a step in the right direction towards a more inclusive society. However, there are also concerns that the decision could lead to a delay in the implementation of social welfare schemes, which rely on accurate data on caste demographics.
It remains to be seen what the Bihar government’s response to the court’s decision will be and whether they will seek to challenge the stay order. For now, the issue of caste-based census in Bihar has been put on hold by the Patna High Court.
