Winter Session of Parliament: Caste Census and Women’s Reservation Take Center Stage 2024

1. Introduction: An Electrified Parliamentary Debate

Parliament  17th day of the  Winter Session witnessed fiery exchanges between ruling and opposition benches as pivotal issues like the caste census and the Women’s Reservation Bill dominated discussions. The Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of “fooling the public with empty promises.” He asserted that the party’s opposition to the caste census reflects an unwillingness to address the plight of backward classes.

In a counterattack, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman labeled the Congress as “anti-women,” criticizing the party for its inability to pass the Women’s Reservation Bill during its rule due to pressure from its coalition allies. This article unpacks these critical debates and their broader political implications.                                                                                For the more information click on this link

2. The Battle Over Caste Census

Caste census remains a contentious issue, pitting social justice narratives against political calculations. Kharge did not mince words in accusing the BJP of resisting this move, Winter Session alleging that it fears losing its upper-hand electoral advantage.

• Kharge’s Critique:
  The Congress leader highlighted that a caste census is crucial for formulating targeted welfare schemes.
  • “The BJP hands out jumlas (empty promises) to fool everyone and then blames the opposition for its failures,” said Kharge.
  • He emphasized that without reliable data, the most marginalized communities would continue to be excluded from development.
• BJP’s Defense:
  BJP leaders argued that their development initiatives benefit all communities without discrimination.
  • Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan defended the party, Winter Session claiming the opposition is using caste for political gains rather than genuine upliftment.

3. Women’s Reservation Bill: A Missed Opportunity?

The long-standing demand for 33% reservation for women in legislative assemblies and Parliament resurfaced during this session.

• Nirmala Sitharaman’s Accusations:
  Sitharaman attacked Congress for its failure to enact the Women’s Reservation Bill, stating:
  • “It was Congress that blocked this critical reform during its rule due to coalition pressures. BJP is committed to empowering women at every level.”
  • She pointed to successful implementation of reservation policies at the panchayat level under BJP regimes.
• Opposition’s Counterpoint:
  Congress countered by asserting that their leadership has historically championed women’s rights.
  • Kharge rebutted Sitharaman’s claim, accusing the BJP of leveraging women’s issues for optics while ignoring substantive measures.

4. The Political Undercurrents of the Caste Census Debate

The demand for a caste census gained traction after several states, including Bihar and Tamil Nadu, Winter Session initiated their own surveys.

• Congress’ Advocacy for Caste Data:
  Leaders like Rahul Gandhi have repeatedly voiced the need for “jaati ginnaaiye” (count the caste), arguing that development policies must address inequalities based on reliable statistics.
• BJP’s Reluctance:
  • BJP argues that a caste census could deepen social divisions rather than mitigate them.
  • Instead, the party champions economic criteria for affirmative action, moving away from traditional caste-based approaches.
• Regional Parties Weigh In:
  Regional powerhouses like the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Janata Dal (United) strongly back the caste census, aligning with Congress in the opposition bloc.

5. Women’s Rights: A Bipartisan Responsibility

The debate on the Women’s Reservation Bill highlights a long history of political impasses on gender equity in Parliament.

• Congress’ Legacy:
  During the UPA era, Sonia Gandhi advocated for the bill’s passage, but coalition politics, Winter Session particularly resistance from Samajwadi Party and Rashtriya Janata Dal, hindered progress.
• BJP’s Action Plan:
  • BJP claims to have made strides in promoting women leaders, with increased representation in both party structures and governance.
  • Prime Minister Modi frequently mentions schemes like Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao and the recent election of women in high-ranking state positions.
• Socio-Cultural Roadblocks:
  Critics argue that passing the Women’s Reservation Bill is insufficient unless systemic changes address cultural and societal barriers to female participation in politics.

6. Opposition Unity or Division?

The session also revealed fractures within the opposition on key issues.

• Kharge’s Call for Unity:
  He urged all opposition parties to unite against BJP’s reluctance on caste-based enumeration and empowerment of marginalized groups.
  • “The time has come to hold this government accountable for betraying its promises,” he said.
• Lack of Consensus:
  Disagreements between Congress and regional allies over the Women’s Reservation Bill indicate lingering challenges in achieving unified opposition strategies.

7. Public Sentiment and Electoral Implications

The debates around caste census and women’s reservation have significant electoral implications:

• For BJP:
  • Resistance to a caste census may alienate backward classes, Winter Session a crucial vote bank for the party.
  • However, emphasis on gender empowerment initiatives can balance perceptions, Winter Session especially among urban and young voters.
• For Congress:
  • Support for caste census aligns with its pro-social justice image but could also reinforce identity politics critiques.
  • Failure to advance women’s rights legislation during its rule remains a strategic vulnerability.

8. Media and Civil Society Reactions

• Media:
  Coverage of the debates emphasizes stark contrasts between ruling and opposition narratives, with commentators divided over which party has the moral high ground.
• Civil Society:
  • Women’s rights groups renewed calls for immediate passage of the reservation bill.
  • Dalit and OBC organizations vocally supported demands for a caste census.

9. Expert Insights on Policy Challenges

• Caste Census:
  Policy experts warn that lack of caste data could hamper equitable policy-making and exacerbate social disparities.
  • Prof. Anil Kumar, a political analyst, said, “Without detailed caste data, Winter Session any discourse on reservation and affirmative action is superficial.”                                                                                                              For the more information click on this link
• Women’s Reservation:
  Experts emphasize that the bill must be complemented by structural reforms to increase grassroots political participation by women.

10. Conclusion: Unresolved Questions and the Road Ahead

Day 17 of the Winter Session revealed unresolved divides in India’s political landscape over pivotal issues like caste-based enumeration and gender equity. While fiery debates underscored the vibrancy of democratic discourse, tWinter Session hey also highlighted the complexities of achieving consensus on issues deeply rooted in India’s social fabric.

As the session progresses, Winter Session the outcomes of these debates could influence upcoming state and general elections, shaping the future of governance, representation, and justice in the world’s largest democracy.                           ALSO READ:-ED Restitutes Assets Worth ₹4,025 Crore in Bhushan Power and Steel Case to JSW 2024