Synopsis
Karnataka Minister K.N. Rajanna announced that the decision regarding the caste census report is still pending. Home Minister G. Parameshwara emphasized the report's significance and ongoing discussions. The BJP is also planning meetings to address the matter amidst community opposition.Key Takeaways
- Karnataka's caste census report decision is pending.
- Minister Rajanna will verify objections raised.
- Home Minister Parameshwara highlights the report's challenges.
- Communities express reservations over the report.
- Cabinet meeting scheduled for April 17 to discuss the report.
Bengaluru, April 14 (NationPress) The Karnataka Minister for Cooperation, K.N. Rajanna, stated on Monday that the decision to approve the caste census report has not been finalized.
He made these remarks while addressing the concerns regarding the contentious caste census report.
During a press interaction in Hassan, Minister Rajanna asserted that any objections raised will be thoroughly examined. In response to the remarks made by various seers regarding the caste census report, he questioned, "Where do these swamijis obtain their data?"
"The cabinet is scheduled to discuss this topic on April 17. The opposition parties are unlikely to agree with our decisions," he remarked.
In the meantime, Home Minister G. Parameshwara commented on the ongoing discourse about the caste census report on Monday in Bengaluru, stating, "I have begun reviewing the caste census report. I have gone through three to four pages. There are two or three significant issues. The initiative started in 2015, and it has been three years since the census was completed... One aspect involves its implications and discussions surrounding it. It was challenging to compile the report. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah presented the report under tough circumstances."
"The current situation is known. I won’t delve into the specifics of its implications or the policies and programs based on it. Such discussions are premature. It would be inappropriate for me to comment further at this moment," he added.
"We have received copies, and ministers have been instructed to focus solely on this issue during the session on April 17. After discussions, we will address matters related to acceptance and other issues. This is just the beginning," he explained.
When questioned about the opposition to this report, Parameshwara indicated that it was too early to comment. "It began in 2015, and we are only releasing it nearly ten years later," he noted.
"I won’t address the criticisms. Various opinions will emerge. Let’s engage in discussions. Feedback is coming from communities and leaders. We will deliberate on this in the cabinet and evaluate the results," he stated.
BJP leaders are planning a meeting in Bengaluru later today to discuss the issue. The All India Veerashaiva Lingayat Mahasabha, representing the prominent Lingayat community in the state, has announced its refusal to accept the report. The influential Vokkaliga community has also voiced its concerns.
The controversial caste census report, submitted by the Backward Classes Commission to the Congress-led Karnataka government, estimates the Muslim population in the state at 18.08 percent and suggests 8 percent reservation for the community, as per sources.
The caste census report was presented to the state cabinet on Friday (April 10), and the government is holding a special cabinet meeting on April 17 to discuss the report’s recommendations. However, no official statement has been released regarding the report’s contents. Nonetheless, details from the cabinet meeting have emerged publicly.
