Bengaluru, Sep 29 (NationPress) The controversy surrounding the Socio-Economic and Academic survey, commonly referred to as the caste census, intensified on Monday. The BJP in Karnataka has been persistently criticizing the Congress-led state government, claiming that the caste census contains irrelevant questions and is designed to appease Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi.

In a media statement, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah condemned the BJP's stance against the caste census.

CM Siddaramaiah stated, "As soon as our (Congress) government launched the Socio-Economic and Academic Survey, the true intentions of those who proclaim 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas' became evident. BJP leaders are openly calling for a boycott of our (Congress government's) survey, thereby revealing their true selves to the public."

He further explained, "The survey, conducted by the State Backward Classes Permanent Commission, is not limited to any specific caste or religion. It encompasses a socio-economic and educational analysis of seven crore people in our state. Its primary aim is to promote social, economic, and educational equality, ensuring equal opportunities for everyone."

CM Siddaramaiah elaborated, "The objective is to prevent the concentration of wealth, opportunities, and representation in the hands of a select few; to avoid keeping the poor impoverished; to uplift backward communities; to provide opportunities to women; and to abolish caste and class inequalities. This reflects the Manuvadi ideology deeply embedded in the BJP's leadership."

He also pointed out that, "Our (Congress) survey will uncover the realities faced not just by Dalits, backward classes, and minorities, but also by the impoverished among the forward castes. The BJP is keen to bury these truths. Their opposition stems from a desire to maintain wealth and representation for a select few across all castes and religions."

"In contrast, the NDA government in Bihar has conducted a caste-based socio-economic and educational survey, and a similar survey has been performed in Telangana. Yet, the BJP remained silent in those instances. Moreover, the BJP-led central government, under Prime Minister Modi, is itself moving towards a caste census," he mentioned.

CM Siddaramaiah challenged, "BJP leaders in Karnataka opposing this survey must clarify whether they will also resist the caste census initiated by the Central government. If they oppose it, let them declare it openly. Do they have the courage to confront the Prime Minister? Why are they making themselves a target of ridicule with their foolish remarks?"

He concluded, "The citizens of Karnataka need to recognize the deceptive behavior of BJP leaders. I urge everyone to discard their politically charged and misleading statements, actively participate in the ongoing socio-economic and educational survey, and fully cooperate. Together, let's cultivate an equal society and transform Karnataka into a peaceful haven for all communities."

BJP's Leader of the Opposition (LoP) R. Ashoka addressed reporters in Bengaluru, stating, "The caste survey includes irrelevant queries. CM Siddaramaiah is attempting to inflate numbers for specific castes. There has been no proper groundwork for this survey."

LoP Ashoka further claimed, "The Congress is pressuring officials to complete the census in just 15 days. This survey should be conducted with adequate time. It is merely a ploy to satisfy Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi."

He advised the public, "There is no obligation to share personal information in this caste survey. Respond only to appropriate questions. People should exercise caution regarding the survey."

LoP Ashoka remarked, "Individuals should not divulge all details in the caste survey being conducted by the state government. They are posing all sorts of questions. Whether to respond is a personal choice. The Congress is exploiting this for political gain. There are no funds in the Treasury, and ration cards are being canceled. They require criteria for that. This caste survey is a means to achieve that and to cut schemes."