THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan stated that the state government's position is to conduct a caste census, with the final decision resting with the central government. He made this clear during a meeting with minority groups at Shankaranarayanan Thampi Hall in the Legislative Assembly. Kerala Kaumudi highlighted on February 28 that although the central government opposes the caste census, the state government can conduct it independently.

This was also emphasized in the keynote speech by Chief Editor Deepu Ravi at the 136th Shiva Pratishtha Annual Conference in Aruvipuram on the same day. A caste census is deemed necessary to address a century of injustice. The Chief Editor also noted that failure to submit this data to the Supreme Court could jeopardize the current reservation for the Ezhava community.

In addition, the Chief Minister affirmed that the Citizenship Amendment Act will not be enforced. He underscored the importance of maintaining a secular society and standing steadfastly against communalism. Kerala's current religious harmony and social security are attributed to progressive movements embracing secular values alongside revivalist and nationalist movements. He cautioned that despite the absence of communal conflicts, vigilance against communal forces remains necessary.