In the midst of internal divisions within the ruling Congress party, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah hinted at his commitment to accepting the Socio-Economic and Education Survey report, commonly known as the "caste census." This statement gains significance as the Karnataka State Commission for Backward Classes is anticipated to present the report to the state government later this month.
Siddaramaiah, expressing alignment with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's stance, emphasised the importance of conducting a caste census across the country to ensure "equal share for all - equal rights for all." He conveyed his unwavering decision to deliver justice to disadvantaged communities by accepting the findings of the Economic, Social, and Educational Survey conducted by the previous government.
"I fully agree with our proud leader Rahul Gandhi's stand. I feel that the country's independence will be meaningful only when the caste census is conducted across the country and based on its report, "equal share for all - equal rights for all" is ensured," Siddaramaiah posted on 'X'.
"My decision to do justice to the disadvantaged communities by accepting the report of the Economic, Social and Educational Survey conducted by our previous government is unwavering," he said.
The Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, while addressing an election rally in Udaipur, had earlier described the caste census as an 'X-ray' of the country and pledged that if the Congress comes to power in Rajasthan, it will conduct a caste census in the state. Moreover, he committed to conducting a national-level caste census if the Congress assumes office at the Centre.
Siddaramaiah had previously maintained that a decision on making the survey public would be taken upon receiving the report.
The social-economic and educational survey, commissioned by the Congress government in 2015 at an estimated cost of Rs 170 crore, remains undisclosed, and its findings have not been made public yet. Tasked with preparing a caste census report, the state Backward Classes Commission conducted the survey under its then chairperson H Kantharaj.
However, resistance from two dominant communities, Lingayats and Vokkaligas, adds complexity to the situation. Lingayats, represented by the All India Veerashaiva Mahasabha, have criticised the survey, calling it unscientific, and urged a fresh survey. Vokkaliga leaders, in a meeting attended by Deputy CM D K Shivakumar and prominent seers, passed a resolution urging the government to "reject" the caste census.
In contrast, federations representing Dalits, tribals, and other backward classes demand the release of the caste census findings, accusing the dominant communities of attempting to obstruct its disclosure. K Jayaprakash Hegde, the current chairperson of Karnataka State Commission for Backward Classes, has committed to submitting the caste census report to the state government in November.
The delay in releasing the survey's findings is attributed to alleged contradictions with the "traditional perception" of caste numerical strength in Karnataka, particularly regarding Lingayats and Vokkaligas. The political blame game continues, with officials pointing to technical hurdles and the need for the Cabinet's decision once the report is submitted by the commission.
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