The Bihar government had announced its decision to conduct a caste-based survey to gather information on the socio-economic status of people from different castes and sub-castes in the state. The survey was aimed at providing comprehensive data on the caste-wise population, their educational and economic status, and their access to basic amenities like healthcare, water, and sanitation. The data would be used for formulating policies and schemes for the welfare of different sections of society.

The decision to conduct the survey was taken after consultations with all political parties in Bihar. The Chief Minister, Nitish Kumar, had stated that the survey would help in identifying the areas where the government needs to focus its attention for the upliftment of the marginalized sections of society. He had also assured that the data collected during the survey would be kept confidential and used only for planning and policy-making purposes.

However, the decision to conduct a caste-based survey has been met with criticism from some sections of society who view it as an attempt to reinforce caste divisions in society. They argue that instead of focusing on the socio-economic status of people, the survey will only serve to further deepen the fault lines between different castes and sub-castes.

The opposition BJP has also been critical of the decision to conduct the survey, accusing the government of trying to appease the minority vote bank. They have argued that the survey will only serve to create further divisions in society and promote identity politics.

The recent stay order by the Patna High Court has added to the controversy surrounding the survey. The court has directed the government to immediately stop the survey and preserve the data collected till now. The court has also asked the government not to share the data with anybody till the final orders are passed. The court's decision has been welcomed by the opposition BJP, which has demanded the resignation of Nitish Kumar.

In conclusion, the decision to conduct a caste-based survey in Bihar has been a controversial one, with opinions sharply divided on its potential benefits and drawbacks. While the government has argued that the survey will provide valuable data for policy-making, some sections of society view it as an attempt to reinforce caste divisions in society. The recent stay order by the Patna High Court has added to the controversy, and the final outcome of the case remains to be seen.