Bengaluru, Oct 4 (NationPress) Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister and State Congress President D.K. Shivakumar made an earnest appeal on Saturday, urging citizens to engage in the ongoing social and educational survey, termed as the caste census, organized by the Backward Classes Commission. He emphasized the importance of providing accurate information to secure justice for future generations across all communities.

While inaugurating the survey in the Greater Bengaluru area, Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar addressed the media outside his residence in Sadashivanagar.

As the Bengaluru Development Minister, he stated, “The survey commenced today in the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) area, and I participated by providing all necessary information. I strongly encourage the public to also contribute patiently and share their details. It is essential for all caste communities to be involved in this survey,” he remarked.

When questioned about the necessity to simplify some of the survey questions, he acknowledged, “I reviewed the questions today and found that they should be made simpler. People in urban areas tend to have less patience.”

Addressing concerns over certain personal queries in the survey, Shivakumar noted, “The court has clarified that no one is obliged to answer these questions. Surveyors may inquire, but responding is entirely voluntary. These questions will not pose any issues. I have instructed the surveyors to conduct the survey meticulously in Bengaluru.”

When queried about individuals hesitating to participate, he remarked, “It is our responsibility to provide accurate information. We will fulfill our obligations.”

On the topic of server-related challenges concerning the caste census, he commented, “Let them handle it; it is their responsibility. People will also have the option to participate online, and I encourage everyone to provide their information there as well.”

In response to BJP's assertions that the survey might impact voter lists, Shivakumar replied, “What can we say about the elders?”

When asked about Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's previous statement regarding the Supreme Court's intervention over tax-related injustices, he asserted, “These are our taxes, our rights. We are currently losing between Rs 15,000 to 20,000 crore. The Central government must intervene.”

The official statement from the Chief Minister's Office revealed that as of October 3, out of the targeted 1.43 crore (1,43,77,978) households, the survey for 81.27 lakh (81,27,206) households has been completed as of October 2.

A total of 3.42 crore (3,42,31,444) individuals have been counted in the caste census, showing a progress rate of 63.03 percent, as per the statement.