Owaisi Asks Centre for Timeline on Caste Census in India Amid Bihar Tour

Asaduddin Owaisi, leader of AIMIM, is currently visiting Bihar for two days. During his visit, he questioned the central government about the timeline for conducting a caste census in India. The government recently announced plans to include caste enumeration in the upcoming census. Owaisi emphasised the importance of this data for ensuring justice and effective affirmative action across society.

Owaisi's visit to Bihar comes ahead of the assembly elections scheduled later this year. He is touring the Seemanchal region, which includes Purnia, Araria, Kishanganj, and Katihar districts. This area has a significant Muslim population. Owaisi is expected to hold a public meeting in Kishanganj on Saturday.

Caste Census and Policy Decisions

The absence of current caste data hampers fair policy-making, according to Owaisi. He highlighted that India still relies on the outdated 1931 caste census. He stressed the need for separate counts of Pasmanda and non-Pasmanda Muslims to ensure marginalised groups receive appropriate benefits.

Owaisi also addressed the recent Pahalgam terror attack, which resulted in 26 casualties. He expressed strong condemnation and stated that his party fully supports government actions against those responsible. "We all condemn it and our party has given full support to the government to take strict action against those responsible for this," he said.

Opposition to Waqf Amendment Act

Regarding the Waqf Amendment Act passed by Parliament, Owaisi criticised it as being detrimental to Muslims. He accused the BJP of misleading people by claiming the Act benefits Muslims, especially women. "This Act is against Muslims," he stated, urging resistance against it.

Owaisi called on the central government to ensure justice for victims of the Pahalgam attack. "The central government must take all necessary steps to ensure that the perpetrators of the gruesome attack are brought to justice," he said.

As Owaisi continues his tour in Bihar, his focus remains on advocating for a timely caste census and addressing issues affecting Muslims in India. His statements reflect ongoing concerns about representation and justice within marginalised communities.

With inputs from PTI