Why Caste Census Must Include Muslim Castes?

India is a diverse country, not only in terms of religion but also in terms of caste, class, and linguistic identities. While the Hindu caste system is often the focus of discussions on social hierarchy, caste divisions among Indian Muslims are equally real and impactful, though frequently overlooked. A caste census, to be truly inclusive and useful for policy-making, must include Muslim castes. Excluding them would not only present an incomplete picture of Indian society but also hinder social justice for backward and marginalized Muslim communities.

The Reality of Caste Among Muslims

Although Islam preaches equality and brotherhood among believers, the Indian subcontinent’s socio-cultural realities have shaped a different outcome. Indian Muslims are not a monolithic community. Instead, they are stratified along caste-like lines similar to Hindus. Broadly speaking, Muslim society in India is divided into three major groups: Ashraf (nobles or upper castes), Ajlaf (backward castes), and Arzal (Dalit Muslims or the most marginalized).

The Ashraf include Sayyids, Sheikhs, Pathans, and Mughals, who claim foreign lineage and enjoy socio-economic dominance. Ajlaf Muslims are those who converted from artisan and peasant communities and continue to engage in traditional occupations. The Arzal, meanwhile, include groups like Halalkhors and Lalbegis who perform menial jobs and face intense social exclusion similar to Hindu Dalits.

Socio-Economic Disparities

Several studies, including those by the Sachar Committee (2006) and Ranganath Misra Commission (2007), have highlighted the backwardness of Muslim communities. However, these reports often deal with the Muslim population in aggregate, masking the intra-community disparities. In reality, Ashraf Muslims are far better placed than backward and Dalit Muslims in terms of education, jobs, political representation, and social mobility.

For instance, the presence of Ashraf Muslims is far higher in elite institutions, religious leadership, and administrative posts, while backward Muslim castes often remain confined to traditional occupations like barbers, weavers, and butchers. Dalit Muslims face the worst discrimination and are even denied entry into mosques and burial grounds dominated by upper-caste Muslims.

Importance of Inclusion in Caste Census

A caste census is not merely an exercise in counting numbers. It is a tool for identifying disparities and planning targeted welfare measures. If Muslim castes are excluded from the caste census, it would create a distorted image of the community and prevent accurate identification of those truly in need.

Inclusion of Muslim castes would help in:

  1. Policy Planning: Government schemes for education, employment, and social welfare can be better directed if Muslim caste data is available.
  2. OBC Reservation Rationalization: Currently, many Muslim castes are listed as Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in various states. However, the absence of caste-wise data prevents fair distribution of reservation benefits. Ashraf Muslims often corner a disproportionate share, sidelining the genuinely backward castes.
  3. Empowering Marginalized Muslim Voices: Inclusion would validate the existence of intra-Muslim hierarchies and give a platform to marginalized Muslim groups to demand their rights.
  4. Promoting Social Justice: India’s constitutional vision of equality cannot be fulfilled if an entire section of society remains uncounted and invisible in policy frameworks.

Addressing the Denial

Some religious leaders argue that recognizing caste among Muslims goes against the tenets of Islam. However, denying the existence of caste does not eliminate its social impact. Ignoring caste among Muslims serves only the interests of dominant castes within the community and hinders the upliftment of the disadvantaged.

Conclusion

For India to truly progress toward an egalitarian society, every form of social hierarchy must be acknowledged and addressed—irrespective of religious labels. A caste census that includes Muslim castes is not only necessary but essential for ensuring equitable representation and targeted welfare. It will shine a light on neglected communities and pave the way for a more inclusive and just future.

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