In a recent revelation, Uttar Pradesh finds itself at the center of a demographic discussion, with estimates suggesting that the Other Backward Classes (OBCs) make up over 50% of the state’s population. These estimations are based on data collected by the Hukum Singh committee, commissioned by the state government back in 2001.
It’s important to note that no precise caste-wise breakdown of the OBC population has been available since the 1931 Census. However, the Hukum Singh-led committee, relying on family registers from rural areas, approximated the population of 79 OBCs in the state to be around 7.56 crore. Taking into account an average of 20.78% of the urban population, the OBC population may well have surpassed 50% of the state’s total population as per the 2001 census.
Among the significant OBC groups, Yadavs emerge as the largest, comprising 19.40% of this demographic. Kurmis and Patels follow with a 7.4% share. Nishads, Mallahs, and Kevats account for 4.3%, Bhars and Rajbhars at 2.4%, Lodhs at 4.8%, and Jats at 3.6% of the overall OBC population.
This revelation has reignited the debate surrounding caste-based reservations and representation. While the Mandal Commission indicated a 52.2% OBC population on a national scale, the focus now turns towards the demand for a caste census to gain a more accurate understanding of caste demographics.
In response to this, various political parties and leaders have expressed support for conducting a comprehensive caste census, suggesting that it could bring clarity to the complex issue of social justice and equitable representation. The debate over the allocation of quotas for the Most Backward Classes (MBCs) within the OBC quota continues to be a significant point of contention, adding further complexity to the matter.
The data shared here highlights the ongoing importance of understanding the demographic composition of states like Uttar Pradesh and the potential implications it holds for policy decisions and social justice initiatives.
