The controversial Socio-Economic and Academic Survey, popularly referred to as the caste census, commenced across Karnataka on Monday. The undertaking, however, has been delayed by a few days in Bengaluru due to administrative reasons.
The Karnataka government announced that the comprehensive survey would be carried out by the Karnataka State Backward Classes Commission between September 22 and October 7, coinciding with the Dussehra holidays. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has appealed to all citizens to actively participate in the exercise.
According to Siddaramaiah, around 1.75 lakh teachers have been deployed for the task, with each receiving an honorarium of up to ₹20,000. The total cost of the honorariums alone is estimated at ₹325 crore. The project has been allocated an initial budget of ₹420 crore, with a provision for additional funds if required.
The Commission has prepared a questionnaire of 60 questions for residents to answer in writing. Aadhaar numbers will also be collected to prevent any duplication of responses.
Backward Classes Commission Chairman Madhusudhan Naik confirmed that the launch in Bengaluru was postponed at the request of the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) because their staff required additional training. As new districts have been formed under the GBA, the survey in the city will be delayed by two to three days.
Highlighting the importance of the exercise, Siddaramaiah stated: “We know that special efforts are necessary to eradicate backwardness, poverty, unemployment, and illiteracy, so the census being conducted. The Commission is expected to submit its report by December.
The survey has drawn sharp criticism from the opposition, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) calling it an "attempt to divide Hinduism" and labelling it an "anti-people survey."
Leader of Opposition R Ashoka lashed out at the Congress-led government, stating: “The Constitution provides equal opportunities to all. It states that social justice should be provided to everyone. As Dr. Ambedkar said, when the Constitution came into effect on January 26, 1950, we were stepping into a society full of disparities.”
Accusing the government of using the survey to divide communities, Ashoka alleged: “People from all castes have opposed conversion. Names like Kuruba, Brahmin, Vishwakarma, etc., have been prefixed with ‘Christian’. Congress leader Sonia Gandhi is a Christian, and this is being done to please her.” He further questioned the inclusion of caste names in a socio-educational survey and accused the government of dividing Hindus under the guidance of Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi.
Ashoka urged ministers who oppose the survey to resign instead of merely issuing statements. "If they do this, the caste communities will not forgive the ministers,” he warned.
Also read: Ganesha idol found desecrated in temple at Karnataka’s Hassan
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