Is the Karnataka State Permanent Backward Classes Commission Under External Influence?
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Synopsis
In a recent statement, Karnataka BJP leader Chalavadi Narayanaswamy raised concerns about the Karnataka State Permanent Backward Classes Commission being influenced from outside. His allegations highlight the complexities surrounding the caste census and the classification of castes, prompting urgent discussions and potential repercussions for the Commission's future.
Key Takeaways
- Allegations of external influence over the Karnataka State Permanent Backward Classes Commission have surfaced.
- Confusion in caste classifications during the ongoing caste census is causing unrest among various communities.
- Concerns have been raised about the impact of Christian conversions on caste identities.
- The BJP is advocating for clarity and fairness in the caste census process.
- Future meetings and decisions regarding the caste census are expected to clarify these issues.
Bengaluru, Sep 23 (NationPress) - The Opposition Leader of the Karnataka Legislative Council and prominent BJP figure, Chalavadi Narayanaswamy, claimed on Tuesday that the 'remote control' of the Karnataka State Permanent Backward Classes Commission is being managed from outside, indicating that the Commission is not being operated by its official members.
The Commission has been tasked with carrying out a caste census within the state.
Narayanaswamy led a BJP delegation to meet with Commission Chairman Madhusudhan Naik, insisting on the cancellation of the Christian designation assigned to 15 additional castes in the Scheduled Castes category concerning the socio-economic and academic census, also referred to as the caste census.
In his media address on Tuesday, Narayanaswamy mentioned that the caste census survey commenced on Monday.
He labeled the survey as a source of confusion and accused it of being an 'anti-Hindutva' initiative.
“We (BJP delegation) met with the Commission Chairman to seek a resolution for this confusion. Communities such as Brahmin Christians, Lingayat Christians, Vokkaligas, and Veerashaivas have all been categorized as Christians. Likewise, Holeya, Madiga, Banjara Christians, Bovi Christians, and others have been included,”
he stated while voicing his opposition to the caste census initiative.
He noted that when protests erupted, prominent communities had their classifications obscured.
“However, the names of Scheduled Castes and other categories were not concealed, leading to confusion,”
he continued.
Narayanaswamy alleged that not all caste labels have been entirely removed from the survey.
“They are speaking ambiguously. They claim that even post-conversion to Christianity, the original caste remains unchanged. How can that be? Will they determine that reservations should still be granted based on the original caste? The court has already ruled on this matter. Who are they to make that decision?”
He also remarked, “If Dalits convert to Christianity, they should not still be classified as Dalits. This is where the confusion arises. Do not categorize based on the caste of individuals who have converted to different religions. If this practice continues, documentation will become impossible. Our (BJP) members will not permit it.”
He pointed out that in previous commissions, including the Sadashiva Commission, Nagamohan Das Commission, Kantharaju Commission, and Jayaprakash Hegde Commission, the term 'Christian' was not mentioned in relation to Scheduled Castes.
“So, where did this come from now?”
he questioned.
Narayanaswamy mentioned that the Commission Chairman assured the BJP delegation that a meeting would be organized on Tuesday evening to reach a conclusion on the issue.
“If no resolution is established today, the Commission will be solely accountable for the outcomes,”
Narayanaswamy cautioned.
He added that discussions resulted in disagreements and that individuals were left hurt.
“There is no opposition to conversion to Christianity, but is the Commission engaging in brokerage activities?”
Point of View
The ongoing discourse surrounding caste classifications in Karnataka reflects the broader societal tensions in India. The allegations raised by BJP leader Chalavadi Narayanaswamy underscore the need for transparency and clarity in the caste census process. This situation warrants careful examination to ensure that the rights and identities of all communities are respected and preserved.
NationPress
23/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the controversy surrounding the caste census in Karnataka?
The controversy revolves around allegations that the Karnataka State Permanent Backward Classes Commission is being influenced externally, leading to confusion in caste classifications, particularly regarding communities that have converted to Christianity.
Who is Chalavadi Narayanaswamy?
Chalavadi Narayanaswamy is the Opposition Leader of the Karnataka Legislative Council and a senior leader of the BJP, known for his vocal stance on issues affecting the backward classes in Karnataka.
What did Narayanaswamy request from the Commission Chairman?
He demanded the cancellation of the Christian tag assigned to 15 additional castes in the Scheduled Castes list and sought clarity on the caste census process.
What are the implications of the caste census?
The caste census has significant implications for social justice and reservation policies in India, as it aims to accurately represent various communities for equitable resource allocation.
What was the response of the Commission Chairman?
The Commission Chairman assured the BJP delegation that a meeting would be convened to address the concerns raised regarding the caste census.
