Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced on Friday that a decision regarding the implementation of the caste census report will be made during the upcoming cabinet meeting. The CM made this statement while addressing the media at the Ginigera Air Strip in Koppal, in response to MLA Basavaraj Rayareddy’s remarks on integrating the caste census into policymaking.
Siddaramaiah indicated plans to consult with the Minister of Backward Classes next week to discuss the caste census further. The report, submitted by the Chairman of the Commission for Backward Classes, Jayaprakash Hegde, was presented to the government in February this year. The demand for a nationwide caste census has emerged as a significant agenda for Congress, with other parties in the INDIA bloc also advocating for its implementation.
Earlier in June, BJP MP Sudhanshu Trivedi criticized the Karnataka government for not releasing the data from the caste census, asserting that while the survey had been conducted, the results were being withheld. He quoted Karnataka’s Deputy Chief Minister, who reportedly warned of consequences if the data were disclosed.
Despite criticism, Congress leaders, including Jairam Ramesh, have emphasized the importance of conducting a caste-based census to ensure social empowerment and uphold constitutional provisions. Ramesh questioned whether demanding a caste census equated to casteism, asserting that the caste system has been ingrained in Indian society for centuries and cannot be ignored.
Opposition parties, including Congress, RJD, and NCP, continue to advocate for a nationwide caste census, citing the necessity for accurate data on the population of various caste groups to inform policy decisions.
