Bihar’s Caste Survey

October 3, 2023

The recent release of Bihar’s caste survey results has generated considerable interest and debate, shedding light on the intricate caste dynamics within the state. This comprehensive survey provides crucial data on the composition of various caste groups and their implications for politics, policies, and social dynamics.

Key Findings of the Bihar Caste Survey

The Extremely Backward Classes (EBCs) constitute the largest social group, comprising 36.01% of Bihar’s population, totaling 4,70,80,514 individuals.
Other Backward Classes (OBCs) make up 27.12% of the population, with a total of 3,54,63,936 members.
Scheduled Castes (SCs) account for 19.65%, numbering 2,56,89,820 individuals.
Scheduled Tribes (STs) form a minority, representing only 1.68%, with 21,99,361 members.
The “unreserved” category, often referred to as “forward” castes, comprises 15.52% of the population, totaling 2,02,91,679 individuals.
The overall population of Bihar, according to the survey, is 13,07,25,310, an increase from the 2011 census figure of 10.41 crore.

Methodology of the Survey

The decision to conduct the caste survey was made following an all-party meeting in June 2022, with a budget allocation of Rs 500 crore.
The survey was carried out in two phases, including the counting of households and collecting data on castes, religions, economic backgrounds, and family members’ residency.
The Patna High Court initially paused the survey but later allowed it to proceed after clarifications were provided, emphasizing it as a “survey” rather than a census.
Over 3 lakh individuals, mainly teachers, conducted the survey, collecting data via a 17-question form on caste, religion, and economic status.

Significance of the Survey Findings

The political landscape of Bihar has long been influenced by the politics of identity and caste-based reservations. These findings may present an opportunity for renewed mobilization among backward classes, potentially affecting electoral dynamics.
The survey results may also intensify calls for an increase in OBC quotas beyond the current 27%, along with demands for sub-quotas for EBCs.
Additionally, the data may reignite debates regarding the 50% reservation ceiling imposed by the Supreme Court, a significant legal constraint on reservation policies in India.
The Opposition INDIA alliance could use the survey to exert pressure on the BJP to conduct a nationwide caste census.

Impact on Upcoming Elections

The survey highlights the substantial vote bank represented by EBCs, OBCs, and SCs, collectively constituting over 82% of Bihar’s population.
Political leaders like Lalu Prasad and Nitish Kumar have traditionally been associated with these groups, and their influence in state politics remains significant.
The complex caste dynamics in Bihar present a challenge for the BJP, which will likely leverage the Prime Minister’s OBC background to appeal to these groups.
Nitish Kumar, with his national ambitions, may seek to capitalize on the survey results to reinvigorate his political prospects.

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