Congress demands census timeline, raises China border situations in Lok Sabha

Digital Desk: The Deputy Leader of Congress in the Lok Sabha Gaurav Gogoi submitted an adjournment motion on July 25 demanding a definitive timeline for the long-delayed national census. Gogoi underscored the critical importance of census data for informed policymaking and resource allocation, stating, "The census is a fundamental exercise that provides critical data for understanding the socio-economic fabric of our nation."

The last census was conducted in 2011, and repeated delays have left India among the few countries yet to update this crucial data. Gogoi noted that 94 countries, including China and Bangladesh, successfully completed their censuses during the pandemic, whereas India, along with only two other nations, has postponed without setting a new date.

Gogoi criticized the reliance on outdated 2011 data, which he argues no longer reflects the current demographic and socio-economic needs of the population. He highlighted issues such as citizens being excluded from public distribution systems due to outdated information. "The government's decision-making currently relies on 2011 data, which does not accurately represent the current needs of India's population," he asserted.

Gogoi also challenged the government's priorities, accusing it of prioritizing political considerations over essential administrative functions. He demanded a comprehensive explanation for the delays and called for immediate action to resolve the issue.

In a separate development, Congress MP Manish Tewari raised concerns about the border situation with China and the growing trade deficit. Tewari pointed out ongoing border clashes since 2019 and recent Chinese territorial claims in Arunachal Pradesh, while also noting that India's trade deficit with China had exceeded $85 billion in 2023-24.