RSS idea utopian but not practical: Chhagan Bhujbal

NAGPUR: In response to the RSS’ stance against a caste-based census, NCP (Ajit Pawar) leader Chhagan Bhujbal mentioned that the RSS' position is a utopian idea but may not be practically possible. He stated that people seek legal remedies to obtain reservation for their communities, and courts often inquire about population data. This, according to him, would not be possible without a census.

Representatives of different communities put up their number at disproportionately high levels. For instance, the Marathas claim their population to be 6 crore, which implies 50% of the state's population. The OBCs claim to constitute 54% of the total population. When considering other communities, this adds up to more than 100%. Bhujbal emphasized that a census is necessary to address such ambiguities.

Regarding the absence of NCP MLAs at the RSS meet at Reshimbagh, Bhujbal clarified that he hadn't received any invitation and deferred the matter to the party leader, Ajit Pawar.

He remarked, 'RSS ideology aligns with that of Mahatma Jyotiba Phule and Chatrapati Sahu. The British conducted a caste-based census in 1931. Although it hasn’t occurred since, did that eliminate caste discrimination?'

Rohit Pawar from NCL Sharad Pawar faction, also Sharad Pawar's grandnephew, stated that his party strongly supports Maratha reservation. He mentioned that the demand is relevant for other communities like Dhangars, Muslims, and Lingayats, for which empirical data is necessary. He expressed support for a caste-based census.