The Bihar government has successfully concluded its contentious caste-based survey, and today, the Chief Secretary unveiled the report. This survey, conducted during the tenure of Nitish Kumar's administration, has been a subject of significant debate and legal scrutiny.
Known as the Bihar Jaati Adharit Ganana, the caste-based survey of Bihar has presented a comprehensive overview of the population, exceeding 13 crores. Delving into the finer details, it discloses that the backward class comprises 27% of the population, while the extremely backward class constitutes 36%. Scheduled Castes account for slightly over 19%, and Scheduled Tribes make up 1.68% of the population. In contrast, the upper castes, often referred to as Savarnas, represent 15.52%.
Furthermore, the survey delineates various caste groups and their respective proportions within the population. Bhumihars make up 2.86%, Brahmins account for 3.66%, Kurmis comprise 2.87%, Musahars constitute 3%, and Yadavas form 14% of the population.
The official announcement of these findings was made during a press conference headed by Development Commissioner Vivek Singh, who operates under the Chief Secretary's purview.
Despite encountering legal challenges and opposition from certain political factions, the Bihar government steadfastly maintained that the caste-based survey was essential for promoting social justice. The Supreme Court did not intervene to halt the exercise, thereby permitting the state to proceed with its planned survey.
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