**Karnataka’s Vokkaliga and Lingayat Communities Unite Against Caste Census Report**
The Karnataka Rajya Vokkaligara Sangha, representing the influential Vokkaliga community, is in discussions with the Veerashaiva Mahasabha of the Lingayat community to form a united front against the recent caste census report in Karnataka. Both communities hold significant sway in the state’s political arena, particularly during election periods, and are now collaborating to challenge the implementation of the findings from the ‘Social and Educational Survey Report’ presented to the state cabinet on April 11.
Kenchappa Gowda, president of the Vokkaligara Sangha, confirmed that talks are ongoing with leaders from the Veerashaiva Mahasabha. “We are in constant touch with them and are planning a meeting, although the date is yet to be finalized,” Gowda stated.
A representative from the Veerashaiva Mahasabha echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the discussions aim to strategize ways to urge the government to reconsider the caste census report. “The focus is on developing strategies to pressure the government not to proceed with the recommendations of the caste census report and to call for a new, impartial survey,” the official, who requested anonymity, explained.
The caste census report, submitted to the Karnataka cabinet last month by Jayaprakash Hegde, chairperson of the Karnataka Backward Classes Commission, has sparked considerable controversy. Both the Vokkaligara Sangha and the Veerashaiva-Lingayat communities, two of the largest social groups in the state, have expressed concerns that the report, commissioned a decade ago, fails to adequately represent their interests and requires a comprehensive review.
Following the report’s presentation, a special cabinet meeting was convened on April 17, where it was decided that the matter would be revisited in a cabinet meeting scheduled for May 2.
**Conclusion**
The collaboration between the Vokkaliga and Lingayat communities highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding the caste census report in Karnataka. As both groups work together to advocate for their interests, the outcome of their efforts could significantly impact the political landscape in the state.
**FAQ**
**What is the main concern regarding the caste census report in Karnataka?**
The primary concern is that the caste census report does not adequately represent the interests of the Vokkaliga and Lingayat communities, prompting calls for a thorough review and a new, fair survey.
