Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's push for a nationwide caste census has sparked mixed reactions, particularly in Telangana and Karnataka, where caste surveys have triggered demands for greater political and social reforms.In Telangana, the results of the state's caste survey revealed that Backward Classes (BCs) make up 46.25% of the population, making them the largest social group. The survey's findings have led to calls for increased reservations for BCs, particularly in the upcoming local body elections. BC leaders, including R Krishnaiah and Vakulabharanam Krishna Mohan Rao, have demanded that the Telangana government implement 42% reservations for BCs, warning of statewide agitations if their demands are not met. The survey results have also caught the attention of the K Chandrashekar Rao-led Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), which is pushing for the implementation of the survey’s findings as well.
 

While the Congress government in Telangana has pledged to increase BC reservations to 42% after taking power, it now faces pressure to act on its promises before the local elections. Meanwhile, the caste survey in Karnataka, which was commissioned in 2014, is still under review, with the Congress party divided over whether to release the findings. A standoff between party leaders, including Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar, has stalled the release of the report, even as Rahul Gandhi continues to advocate for a nationwide caste census.Congress now finds itself in a precarious position, caught between the demands of BC communities in Telangana and Karnataka and the internal divisions within the party over caste-based data. As the party pushes for a national conversation on caste, it must navigate the complexities of regional politics and demands for social justice within its own ranks.