Is Karnataka Government Updating Caste Census Data?

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Is Karnataka Government Updating Caste Census Data?

Synopsis

The Karnataka government is set to refresh its caste census data through a resurvey, which will allow communities to submit their information transparently. This initiative aims to address ongoing disputes and ensure every community is represented. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will announce the date post-Cabinet discussions, highlighting the state's commitment to social justice.

Key Takeaways

  • Karnataka government to conduct a resurvey for caste census.
  • Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will announce the date post-Cabinet meeting.
  • Efforts aim to resolve community disputes and enhance representation.
  • Public encouraged to participate through various methods.
  • Commitment to social justice highlighted by Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar.

Bengaluru, June 10 (NationPress) The Congress-led administration in Karnataka has revealed its plan to refresh its caste census documentation by initiating a resurvey within a designated timeframe. The specific date for this initiative will be disclosed by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah following a Cabinet meeting.

Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, who also serves as the President of the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC), shared this information with the press on Tuesday in New Delhi after a gathering with AICC officials.

"We have resolved to address the disputes concerning the caste census and the uncertainties surrounding community statistics. Everyone will have a fresh chance to submit their details through both door-to-door surveys and online methods. This operation will be carried out transparently," stated Dy CM Shivakumar.

He continued, "On Tuesday, AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, and AICC General Secretaries K.C. Venugopal and Randeep Singh Surjewala convened with me and the Chief Minister to discuss party organization, state politics, and the recent stampede incident."

"In relation to the caste census, we aim to reach a conclusive decision in the Cabinet meeting set for June 12. Members of Parliament, State Legislators, and various organizations have engaged in discussions with our leadership on this issue.

"Considering the objections raised by certain organizations and communities about the caste census, our leadership has advised us to ensure that everyone gets an equitable chance to participate. It has been resolved that no community should be excluded from the caste census; everyone must be accounted for. The Chief Minister has been instructed to maintain harmony throughout this process," explained Shivakumar.

"The Karnataka administration is dedicated to promoting social equity. Numerous communities have expressed concerns regarding the statistics presented in the caste census, and it has been determined to offer everyone an opportunity to clarify their status. The public is encouraged to accurately state their community affiliation. This is an opportunity that must be seized. We urge community leaders and spiritual figures to assist in this endeavor," Shivakumar appealed.

"Over the past two months, we have been undertaking a census for Scheduled Castes concerning internal reservations. As this process is extensive, we will discuss and finalize it in the Cabinet. We are committed to ensuring that all voices are heard and justice is delivered. There is no cause for concern. Through our initiatives, we will resolve any uncertainties regarding the caste census. Residents of our state, regardless of their location, will have the chance to provide their information online," clarified Shivakumar.

When questioned about the discussion surrounding the stampede incident, he stated, "This issue was indeed addressed. Our party treats this tragedy with utmost seriousness. We have briefed our leadership thoroughly about the incident and presented the facts."

In response to a query about potential Cabinet reshuffling, he noted, "That matter was not discussed."

Earlier, CM Siddaramaiah confirmed to the media in New Delhi that the leadership had deliberated on conducting a resurvey regarding the caste census within the specified timeframe. He further clarified that there was no conversation regarding a Cabinet reshuffle.

The Congress National General Secretary K.C. Venugopal, while addressing the media, remarked, "Regarding the caste census, the Congress party believes that the actions taken by the Karnataka government must be accepted in principle. However, we have observed that certain groups harbor apprehensions about the counting process in the caste census, and the census conducted by the Karnataka government a decade ago contains outdated data."

"We have recommended to the Chief Minister to perform a re-enumeration process within a defined timeframe, such as 60 or 70 days, depending on what the Chief Minister and the government consider appropriate. A re-enumeration of these figures is what we have resolved concerning the caste census," he stated.

Point of View

I emphasize the importance of the Karnataka government’s initiative to update the caste census data. Ensuring accurate representation is crucial for fostering social equity. The transparency in the resurvey process is commendable, as it addresses community concerns and seeks to unify diverse voices across the state. This approach reflects a commitment to inclusivity and social justice.
NationPress
11/06/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the caste census resurvey?
The resurvey aims to update outdated statistics, address community concerns, and ensure that every group is fairly represented in the caste census data.
Who will be involved in the resurvey process?
The resurvey will involve participation from various communities through house-to-house surveys and online submissions to ensure comprehensive data collection.
When will the date for the resurvey be announced?
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will announce the date for the resurvey following a Cabinet meeting scheduled for June 12.
What concerns have been raised regarding the caste census?
Some communities have expressed concerns about the accuracy and inclusivity of the previous census data, prompting the need for an updated count.
How does this initiative contribute to social justice?
By ensuring all communities can participate in the caste census, the initiative promotes social equity and addresses historical disparities in representation.