3 Things
Caste census, Punjab-Haryana water row, and Air India halts Tel Aviv flights
May 5, 2025
Vikas Pathak from The Indian Express sheds light on the BJP's controversial push for a caste census and its far-reaching effects on Indian political dynamics. Kanchan Vasdev dives into the tense water dispute between Punjab and Haryana, revealing the critical role of the Bhakra Beas Management Board in managing a dwindling resource. The discussion also touches on Air India’s suspension of flights to Israel amidst rising regional tensions, showcasing the intertwining of politics and social issues.
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Quick takeaways
- The inclusion of caste data in India's national census could significantly shift political dynamics, affecting both the Congress and BJP's strategies in upcoming elections.
- The escalating water-sharing conflict between Punjab and Haryana highlights critical challenges in interstate resource management amid competing agricultural and drinking water needs.
Deep dives
Debate on Caste Data Inclusion in Census
The decision to include caste data in India's national census has reignited a long-standing debate, especially given the BJP's previous resistance to such a move. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnav announced approval for the inclusion, surprising the opposition, notably the Congress, which had been advocating for it for some time. Historically, the demands for a caste census gained traction around 2010, but the BJP had previously favored limiting census data to scheduled castes (SC) and scheduled tribes (ST). The timing of this policy change raises questions about political strategy, especially considering the upcoming elections and attempts to address the opposition's narrative surrounding caste representation.
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