Is the Karnataka Government's Caste Survey Merely a Distraction?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Union Minister Pralhad Joshi criticizes the Karnataka government's caste survey, claiming it masks deeper issues within the Congress party. As internal conflicts escalate between CM Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM Shivakumar, Joshi raises concerns over the government's priorities and the implications for social policies.
Key Takeaways
- Pralhad Joshi criticizes the Karnataka government for the caste survey.
- The survey is seen as a distraction from internal conflicts.
- Concerns are raised over the lack of development initiatives.
- The historical opposition of Congress to SC/ST and OBC welfare is highlighted.
- Implications of religion-based reservations are questioned.
Bengaluru, Sep 26 (NationPress) Union Minister for Food, Public Distribution, and Consumer Affairs Pralhad Joshi has accused the Congress-led Karnataka government of orchestrating a caste survey merely to mask its administrative shortcomings and the internal discord between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar.
In a media briefing held in Bidar on Friday, Joshi lambasted CM Siddaramaiah, asserting that the latter is orchestrating this “caste survey drama” to curry favor with Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi.
“Disguised as a caste survey, the genuine challenges facing the state are being obscured. There is a noticeable absence of development initiatives across Karnataka. The government lacks even the funds to repair potholes, yet it is allocating resources to this caste survey,” Joshi contended.
He pointed out that the Central government had postponed the census in 2021 due to the Covid-19 pandemic and other factors, and is now gearing up to recommence it.
Nevertheless, he claimed that the Karnataka Congress government has hastily advanced the caste survey as a diversion, driven by its internal power struggles, particularly between the CM and Deputy CM.
“The purported September revolution within Congress is nearing its conclusion. To deflect attention, they are employing various tactics. The caste survey is merely one such maneuver. Even within Congress, figures like D.K. Shivakumar and other ministers are voicing opposition to this unscientific survey,” Joshi asserted.
Joshi further scrutinized the Congress party’s history: “How many caste groups have the Congress leaders genuinely aided? Historically, Congress has consistently resisted SC/ST and OBC welfare. From Jawaharlal Nehru to Rajiv Gandhi, they have opposed reservations—even in Parliament. Now Siddaramaiah is merely putting on a show.”
Regarding religion-based reservations, Joshi remarked: “Reservations are intended for individuals who are socially disadvantaged due to untouchability, economic disparity, and other factors.
“However, the Congress-led government is attempting to alter the very essence of this policy. The Supreme Court has already invalidated religion-based reservations, yet the state government is proceeding in that direction nonetheless.”
“By doing so, the government is implicitly acknowledging that even Muslims and Christians experience untouchability, which is constitutionally and legally untenable,” Joshi insisted.
Point of View
It is essential to approach this narrative from a balanced perspective, acknowledging the political dynamics at play while considering the implications of the caste survey on society. The discourse surrounding caste and social justice remains a complex issue that demands thorough and fair examination.
NationPress
26/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main allegations against the Karnataka government?
Union Minister Pralhad Joshi alleges that the Karnataka government is using the caste survey to distract from its administrative failures and internal conflicts.
How has the Central government responded to the census?
The Central government postponed the census in 2021 due to Covid-19 and is now preparing to resume it.
What does Joshi say about the caste survey's purpose?
Joshi claims that the caste survey is a strategy to divert public attention from pressing issues like development and internal strife within Congress.
What historical context does Joshi provide regarding Congress and reservations?
Joshi points out that historically, Congress has opposed SC/ST and OBC welfare and reservations, casting doubt on their current motivations.
What is Joshi's stance on religion-based reservations?
Joshi asserts that the Congress government is attempting to change the direction of reservation policies, despite the Supreme Court's stance against religion-based reservations.
