Is the Centre Overlooking Social, Educational, and Economic Surveys Like Karnataka's?
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Synopsis
Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah argues for a new social, educational, and economic survey, highlighting the absence of similar initiatives from the Union Government. As population growth continues, he underscores the necessity for understanding societal conditions to ensure social justice.
Key Takeaways
- Importance of Social Justice: Understanding community conditions is vital for equitable governance.
- Need for Comprehensive Surveys: Karnataka's survey aims to address gaps in previous data collection.
- Legal Mandates: Compliance with the law necessitates regular re-surveys.
- Political Accountability: Criticism of the BJP highlights the need for proactive governance.
- Community Engagement: Addressing opposition to previous reports is crucial for inclusive policymaking.
Davanagere (Karnataka), June 16 (NationPress) Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah remarked on Monday that understanding the social and economic realities of the populace is crucial for achieving social justice.
He stressed the need for a new survey to fulfill this aim and pointed out that the Union Government is not conducting any social, economic, and educational surveys.
Addressing reporters in Davanagere, the Chief Minister noted that while the Union Government plans to conduct the Census in 2027, there has been no mention of a social, educational, and economic survey.
"What we are undertaking is a comprehensive social, educational, and economic survey, which also encompasses a caste census," he clarified.
CM Siddaramaiah remarked, "We have no issues with the Union Government proceeding with the census. Nevertheless, our survey differs from theirs concerning social, educational, and economic aspects."
Concerns were voiced by both the general and marginalized segments of society regarding the caste census report. Notably, Section 11(1) of the Karnataka Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prohibition of Transfer of Certain Lands) Act requires a re-survey after a decade since the last report, as clarified by CM Siddaramaiah.
He mentioned that the current re-survey is being conducted based on this legal requirement.
H.C. Mahadevappa, the Minister for Social Welfare, stated in Bengaluru that a caste census is vital for effective governance, criticizing the BJP for not performing such an evaluation.
He noted that the BJP, which has been in power at the Centre for two consecutive terms, has neglected the need for a caste census, indicating that necessary actions have not been taken.
"The country's population is continually rising, and efforts to manage this growth must be implemented. The number of constituencies should not be increased based on population alone," he added.
Senior Congress MLA, Laxman Savadi, mentioned in Bengaluru that the state government is conducting a new survey to tackle the issues in the caste census.
According to Savadi, some communities had expressed opposition to the caste census report, which prompted the Congress high command to consult with the Chief Minister, resulting in the announcement of a new survey. He believes this new survey will correct the deficiencies noted in the previous one.
Savadi further stated, "This will be beneficial for us. Let the central government also conduct a caste census; our caste census will aid in assessing facts."
Point of View
It is vital to recognize the significance of accurate data collection in shaping policies. The Karnataka government's move to conduct a comprehensive survey seeks to address societal disparities and ensure effective governance. The contrast with the Union Government's approach raises questions about prioritizing social justice in policy-making.
NationPress
16/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main purpose of the new survey conducted by Karnataka?
The new survey aims to understand the social and economic conditions of the people to ensure social justice.
How does the Karnataka survey differ from the Union Government's Census?
Karnataka's survey focuses specifically on social, educational, and economic aspects, including a caste census, which the Union Government's Census does not address.
What legal requirement necessitates the re-survey in Karnataka?
Section 11(1) of the Karnataka Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prohibition of Transfer of Certain Lands) Act mandates a re-survey every ten years.
What criticism did H.C. Mahadevappa have regarding the BJP?
He criticized the BJP for failing to conduct a caste census during its time in power, which is essential for effective governance.
What did Laxman Savadi say about community opposition to the caste census?
Savadi noted that some communities opposed the caste census report, leading to the decision for a new survey to address these concerns.
