Mangaluru, Oct 8 (NationPress) Madhu Bangarappa, the Minister for School Education and Literacy, along with his role as Shivamogga District In-charge and State Congress OBC Wing President, has vehemently criticized the opposition’s stance on the ongoing Social, Economic, and Educational Survey, often referred to as the caste census.

During a meeting with Karnataka Pradesh Congress backward class leaders in Mangaluru on Wednesday, the minister announced that the deadline for the survey has been postponed to October 18.

“As of Tuesday night, approximately 81 percent of the survey work statewide is complete. The completion rates are 38 percent in Bengaluru, 68 percent in Mangaluru, and 62 percent in Udupi. Delays in Mysuru have arisen due to the Dussehra festivities,” he remarked.

The minister assured that teachers involved in the survey will be provided with adjusted leave.

“The Right to Education Act mandates 220 teaching days, and we currently have 240 available days. Therefore, granting leaves will not disrupt the academic schedule,” he clarified.

In his critique of BJP leaders, including Prahlad Joshi, Pratap Simha, Tejasvi Surya, Ashwath Narayan, and R. Ashoka, Bangarappa questioned, “After taking an oath under the Constitution, how can opposition leaders oppose a survey that is constitutionally sanctioned?”

He emphasized, “Prominent figures like former CM B.S. Yediyurappa and ex-Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda have not denounced this survey, indicating their understanding of its intent.”

Bangarappa defended the survey, stating, “This initiative does not target any caste or religion. It is designed to promote equality based on human values, aligning with the constitutional vision of B. R. Ambedkar. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is at the forefront of this endeavor to aid marginalized and oppressed groups.”

The minister noted that technical issues were encountered in Mangaluru, Udupi, and Bengaluru, where approximately 15,000 to 18,000 residents were temporarily unavailable due to living abroad or relocating. He added that appropriate measures will be taken against staffers who do not comply with the survey requirements.

Criticizing the caste census, Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka expressed on X, “There was a lack of planning regarding the time needed for this caste census. There is no clarity on the questions to be asked, and the government has not considered who will teach in government schools if teachers are assigned census duties.”

“Conducting this caste census without adequate preparation or clear objectives — merely for political gain — will not benefit Kannadigas,” Ashoka asserted.

“A decade ago, the Siddaramaiah government wasted Rs 150 crore on a caste census. Now, it is irresponsibly spending Rs 650 crore of taxpayers’ money,” he emphasized.