Bengaluru, Jan 15 (NationPress) Leader of Opposition in the Karnataka Legislative Council, Chalavadi Narayanaswamy, has claimed that the Congress government is leveraging the heated debate surrounding the contentious caste census as a tactic to shift focus away from critical issues such as corruption, scams, discussions about the potential replacement of the Chief Minister, and changes within the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) leadership.

During a media briefing in Bengaluru on Wednesday, Narayanaswamy highlighted that there is dissent regarding the caste census even from within the Congress ranks. He mentioned that prominent figures like Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and senior leader Shamanur Shivashankarappa have expressed their concerns about the proposal.

Referring to the H. Kantharaju report, he asserted that its findings align with the data recently provided by Karnataka Backward Class Commission Chairman Jayaprakash Hegde.

"If this is the case, what about the changes over the years?" Narayanaswamy questioned.

He criticized the inconsistencies in the data, noting that while the current Scheduled Caste population is estimated at approximately 1.50 crore, the report inaccurately indicates it as 1.08 crore.

Narayanaswamy contended that the Congress government lacks reliable data and mentioned that an official census is scheduled for April or May, which will yield accurate statistics.

He remarked that the current exercise resembles more of a socio-economic and educational survey rather than a true caste census.

He acknowledged that while he has no issues with such surveys, they should encompass all aspects without bias to be acceptable.

The BJP leader emphasized that any implementation should consider both the advantages and disadvantages to ensure it serves the public's benefit.

He criticized the government for leaking information and mishandling discussions.

Narayanaswamy alleged that the Congress is attempting to distract the populace by raising such matters.

He accused the Congress of "sitting in a glass house" while consistently throwing stones at others, creating a scenario where anything appears permissible for them.

Emphasizing the numerous troubles plaguing the ruling Congress party, including corruption scams, leadership shifts, and internal disputes, he reiterated that the government is intentionally changing the "goalpost" to divert public attention.

The BJP has repeatedly maintained that whenever CM Siddaramaiah encounters political uncertainty, he brings the issue of caste census to the forefront.