Should the Karnataka Government Prioritize Development Over Caste Surveys?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The BJP is urging the Karnataka government to prioritize development.
- Concerns over the caste survey's funding have been raised.
- Infrastructure issues, particularly potholes, are a significant focus.
- Public dissatisfaction with road conditions is prompting political action.
- The party advocates for unity over caste-based divisions.
Bengaluru, Sep 25 (NationPress) The BJP has voiced criticism on Thursday regarding the Socio-Economic and Academic Survey initiated by the Karnataka government earlier this week. The party urged Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to shift the focus back to development rather than engaging in what they deem a confusing caste survey.
At a press conference held at the party's state office, Jagannath Bhavan in Bengaluru, BJP State President and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra called upon the government to concentrate on the advancement of Karnataka instead of fostering misunderstandings surrounding the caste census.
“The Congress-led administration has not utilized even a small portion of the allocated funds for various commissions,” alleged B.Y. Vijayendra.
“For the Kantharaju Commission, they disbursed Rs 150–160 crore for preparing the caste census, only to discard the report as outdated. Currently, they are investing Rs 500–600 crore to initiate a new caste census, which only serves to confuse the populace. This pattern was also seen with the retired Justice Nagamohan Das report,” he asserted.
In response to inquiries, B.Y. Vijayendra condemned the state government, accusing it of fostering confusion rather than enabling progress.
“When the public demands development, the government diverts attention by raising caste-related issues. How many times has the Chief Minister mentioned that the Cabinet would decide on the Kantharaju Commission's caste census report? This administration seems intent on creating confusion. Instead of instigating caste discord that seeks to divide Hindu society, the government should prioritize development,” he emphasized.
He also criticized the government for its inability to address potholes on roads in Bengaluru and other districts. “Officials have been counting potholes, yet no actual work has been done. Deadlines have been set repeatedly, but the government has failed to fill them,” he noted.
On Wednesday, the BJP organized a one-hour road blockade statewide to underscore the issue and draw attention to the dire state of the roads.
“The state government must now awaken, cease empty rhetoric, and concentrate on developmental initiatives. The Congress administration is damaging Bengaluru’s honor and reputation. Potholes must be addressed immediately to safeguard Bengaluru’s dignity,” he urged.