In Constitution, Only Centre Can Conduct Census: Govt to Supreme Court

New Delhi: During a hearing of a petition challenging caste-based survey in Bihar, the Central government submitted to the court that the Centre was the only body to decide whether or not the census can be carried out. It further said, “no other body under the Constitution or otherwise is entitled to conduct the exercise of […]

New Delhi: During a hearing of a petition challenging caste-based survey in Bihar, the Central government submitted to the court that the Centre was the only body to decide whether or not the census can be carried out. It further said, “no other body under the Constitution or otherwise is entitled to conduct the exercise of either Census or any action akin to census”. The Narendra Modi-led central government in the apex court mentioned that the former was committed to ensure that all progressive actions should be taken for the upliftment of SCS/STS/SEBCs and OBCs. It said the actions should be in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution and the applicable law.

During the previous hearing, the Bihar government informed the High Court that a caste census survey in Bihar had been conducted before 6 August. Various petitions were submitted to the Supreme Court opposing the Patna High Court ruling in favor of the caste survey ordered by the Bihar government.

On Monday, the Supreme Court heard a petition by the NGO "Ek Soch Ek Prayas" and others challenging the Patna Supreme Court's ruling refusing to suspend the caste census.

Patna High Court Allowed Census

Earlier this month, the Patna High Court allowed the Nitish Kumar-led Bihar government to resume the second phase of the survey that was halted in May this year mere 2 weeks prior to its conclusion.

As per the information, the Bihar government will expend Rs 500 crore on the survey.

On Monday, the Supreme Court heard a petition by the NGO "Ek Soch Ek Prayas" and others challenging the Patna Supreme Court's ruling refusing to suspend the caste census.

On Friday, the Supreme Court headed by Judge Sanjeev Khanna refused to uphold Patna HC's order and keep the case for further trial.

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