Is the caste census a strategy to curtail beneficiaries in Karnataka's guarantee schemes?
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Synopsis
As Karnataka embarks on a controversial caste census, Opposition Leader R. Ashoka argues it may be a tactic to limit beneficiaries of crucial government schemes, potentially disrupting the lives of many. Are the intentions behind this survey truly benevolent?
Key Takeaways
- Caste census aims to gather socio-economic data.
- Concerns raised about reducing beneficiaries from guarantee schemes.
- Government spends ₹52,000 crore annually on welfare programs.
- Criticism of the survey's structure and questions.
- Development in Karnataka is perceived as stagnant.
Bengaluru, Oct 9 (NationPress) The government led by Congress in Karnataka has initiated a plan to gather information from the populace via a Socio-Economic and Academic survey, commonly referred to as the caste census, with the intent to potentially diminish the scope of guarantee schemes, according to the Opposition Leader in the Legislative Assembly, R. Ashoka.
This announcement is poised to spark a significant debate within the state.
It is important to highlight that the state administration is currently providing free electricity for consumption up to 200 watts for every household (Gruha Jyoti), complimentary travel for women on RTC buses statewide (Shakti), 10 kilograms of free rice for each member of a Below Poverty Line (BPL) family (Anna Bhagya), scholarships for two years for unemployed graduates and diploma holders (Yuva Nidhi), and ₹2,000 for women who are heads of the family (Gruha Laxmi). The yearly expenditure incurred by the government on these five guarantee schemes amounts to ₹52,000 crore.
During a press conference on Thursday, Ashoka criticized the state government for hastily conducting the caste survey. He remarked that the survey is riddled with unnecessary queries.
"A strategy has been devised to gather information from the public through this survey aimed at scaling back schemes. The existing guarantees hinder the government's functionality. Financial resources have not been allocated to all corporations. There are no funds available for flood damage compensation. This strategy seems to be a conspiracy to exclude beneficiaries from these programs. If citizens provide their information, various benefits will be curtailed," Ashoka asserted.
He further stated that the caste census led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has encountered obstacles. In a rush to complete the survey within the designated timeframe, the deadline has been extended once more. Under pressure, surveyors are executing disorganized surveys and merely placing stickers in front of residences.
A significant change is anticipated in November, which may lead to a new Chief Minister. This urgency in conducting the survey is leading the public to reject participation.
Many of the questions posed in the caste survey are flawed. For instance, one inquiry relates to the age at which a person was married, which Ashoka deems unnecessary. He criticized the inclusion of irrelevant questions regarding educational background. The intent seems to be to determine the cause of illiteracy, but there is no tangible outcome from this. If people indicate their illiteracy resulted from the Congress party's 60-year rule, will CM Siddaramaiah accept that?
Questions regarding personal loans and their origins are also included. Such queries require considerable time to comprehend and are irrelevant for a socio-educational survey. There are inquiries about land ownership that lack clarity. Furthermore, questions about the amount of jewelry owned necessitate weighing, which seems impractical. Ashoka argued that these questions are wasteful and cost the government hundreds of crores.
Development in the state is stagnant, including in Bengaluru. New schemes seem to be a facade to mislead the public, he added.
In reference to the alleged Soujanya rape and murder case from Dharmasthala in 2012, he expressed hope for justice through the court system for the victim's family.
Point of View
It's essential to assess the implications of the caste census in Karnataka. While initiatives aimed at collecting data can be beneficial for targeted development, concerns raised about the potential reduction of beneficiaries in guarantee schemes highlight the necessity for transparency and accountability in governance. Ensuring that the needs of the marginalized are met should remain a priority for any government.
NationPress
09/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the caste census being conducted in Karnataka?
The caste census is a Socio-Economic and Academic survey initiated by the Karnataka government to gather information about the population's demographics and socio-economic status.
What are the concerns regarding the caste census?
Opposition Leader R. Ashoka has raised concerns that the census may be a strategy to limit beneficiaries of existing government guarantee schemes.
What guarantee schemes are currently provided by the Karnataka government?
The Karnataka government offers several schemes, including free electricity, free transportation for women, free rice for BPL families, scholarships for unemployed graduates, and financial assistance for women heads of families.
Why is the caste census controversial?
The controversy stems from allegations that the caste census may lead to a reduction in beneficiaries for vital welfare schemes, potentially impacting many families in need.
How does the caste census affect development in Karnataka?
Critics argue that focusing on the caste census could stall development initiatives and mislead the public with new schemes that do not address underlying issues.
