**Karnataka Minister Urges Rejection of Caste Census Report Amid Controversy**
Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje has formally requested Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to dismiss the recent caste census report, citing what she claims are “serious discrepancies and political motives.” In her correspondence, Karandlaje criticized the findings of the Kantharaju Commission, labeling the report as unscientific, inaccurate, and influenced by political agendas.
The Minister raised concerns about the underrepresentation of significant communities, particularly the Veerashaiva Lingayats, and pointed out inconsistencies in the data regarding the Sadara sub-sect. She also challenged the report’s assertion that Scheduled Castes represent the largest demographic group in the state, emphasizing her affiliation with the Vokkaliga community.
Karandlaje expressed skepticism regarding the survey’s short duration, questioning the feasibility of gathering accurate data from a population of 5.9 crore within just 50 days. She criticized the expenditure of Rs 169 crore on the census as a misuse of public funds and called for the state to publish a White Paper outlining the survey’s methodology and financial details.
Furthermore, she argued that the state government does not possess the constitutional authority to conduct a caste census, referencing the Census Act of 1948, which grants this power exclusively to the Union government. Karandlaje advocated for a new, scientifically conducted survey linked to Aadhaar, emphasizing the need for proper verification and transparency to ensure credibility and fairness.
In response to the ongoing debate, the Karnataka government has convened a special Cabinet meeting to discuss the contentious caste census report, which has sparked significant political discourse and backlash from various communities, particularly the Vokkaliga and Lingayat groups. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah assured that the government would thoroughly evaluate the report’s recommendations before making any decisions, stressing that no community would face injustice. Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge reiterated that the state government would deliberate on the report and make an informed decision.
As the situation unfolds, the implications of the caste census report continue to resonate across Karnataka, highlighting the complexities of caste dynamics in the region.
**FAQ**
**What are the main concerns regarding the caste census report in Karnataka?**
The main concerns include allegations of inaccuracies, underrepresentation of key communities, and the lack of constitutional authority for the state to conduct the census, as well as doubts about the survey’s methodology and funding.