Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Clears Path for Caste Census Re-Survey Amid Controversy
Karnataka to complete new caste survey in 90 days; fresh report to be submitted soon.
BNH NETWORK
HIGHLIGHTS
- Caste Census Revamp: Karnataka to conduct fresh caste survey after multiple leaders voice concerns.
- Govt Action on Stampede: CM lists disciplinary and investigative steps in Bengaluru tragedy.
- No Ministerial Changes Yet: Siddaramaiah rules out immediate cabinet reshuffle talks.
- Calls Out Centre on Accountability: CM asks why PM-led events with fatalities weren’t discussed in Parliament.
- ED Action Response: CM says his government welcomes legal processes.
CASTE CENSUS REPORT GETS PRINCIPLED NOD, NEW SURVEY ORDERED: CM SIDDARAMAIAH
In a major political and administrative development, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Tuesday announced a decision to approve the caste census report in principle but also initiate a fresh caste re-survey, citing outdated data and widespread opposition from community leaders.
Speaking to media at Karnataka Bhavan in New Delhi, Siddaramaiah said the new survey would be completed within 90 days, adding that it will extend beyond the Scheduled Castes to include all other communities. The move comes after several seers, caste organizations, ministers, and community heads raised concerns about the credibility and fairness of the original report.
PRESSURE FROM COMMUNITY LEADERS TRIGGERS CENSUS RETHINK
CM Siddaramaiah confirmed that detailed discussions were held with Congress high command in Delhi regarding the backlash against the caste census. “Given that the existing caste data is over 10 years old, and in view of widespread disagreement, the government has decided to undertake a new and inclusive survey,” he stated.
The decision is expected to have far-reaching implications for resource distribution, reservation policies, and community representation in the state.
FRESH SURVEY TO BE COMPLETED IN 90 DAYS
Highlighting the urgency, Siddaramaiah assured that the survey will be executed quickly. "The data collection will be completed within 90 days, and a comprehensive report will follow," he confirmed.
The re-survey will mirror the recent census of Scheduled Castes, but will extend to cover all remaining communities, ensuring more accurate demographic representation.
CM BRIEFS PARTY ON BENGALURU STAMPEDE PROBE
Referring to the tragic stampede in Bengaluru, CM Siddaramaiah said he has apprised the party leadership about the steps taken by the government. “We’ve initiated a magisterial probe, appointed a retired judge for a one-member inquiry commission, suspended five police officers, transferred top intelligence officials, and made key administrative reshuffles,” he noted.
He promised strict action based on the inquiry report and reiterated the government’s commitment to justice for the victims.
NO TALKS ON CABINET RESHUFFLE, SAYS CM
Quelling speculation, Siddaramaiah clarified that no discussions were held regarding a cabinet reshuffle. He confirmed plans to meet the Finance Commission Chairman on June 13 but ruled out any imminent changes in the ministerial lineup.
‘WHY NOT DEBATE KUMBH STAMPEDE IN PARLIAMENT TOO?’ ASKS CM
Responding to questions about whether the Bengaluru stampede would be raised in Parliament, CM Siddaramaiah called out the Centre’s double standards, pointing at the Kumbh Mela stampede and the collapse of a bridge inaugurated by the Prime Minister.
He questioned, “Shouldn’t CM Yogi Adityanath be held accountable for those deaths too?”
NO OBJECTION TO ED ACTIONS, SAYS SIDDARAMAIAH
Commenting on the Enforcement Directorate (ED) action involving seizure of properties worth ₹100 crore, CM Siddaramaiah said, “If action is within legal bounds, we have no objections.”
