**Karnataka CM Criticizes BJP’s Opposition to Caste Survey**
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has strongly criticized BJP leaders for their opposition to the ongoing Social, Economic, and Educational Survey in the state, labeling their stance as “hypocritical” and reflective of a “Manuvadi mindset.” In a post on X, he pointed out the inconsistency of BJP leaders who previously supported caste surveys in Bihar and Telangana, as well as the caste census initiated by their own Union government, yet are now calling for a boycott in Karnataka.
Siddaramaiah emphasized that the survey is designed to benefit all residents of Karnataka, covering approximately seven crore individuals to ensure equitable representation. He stated, “This survey is not against anyone; it is in favour of everyone.” He further criticized the underlying ideology of the BJP, which he claims seeks to maintain wealth, opportunities, and representation within a privileged few, perpetuating poverty and inequality among various castes and communities.
The Chief Minister urged citizens to disregard “politically motivated and misleading statements” and to cooperate with the enumerators conducting the survey. In a related development, Congress MLC Ramesh Babu has petitioned BJP national president JP Nadda, seeking action against Union Minister Pralhad Joshi and Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Surya for their opposition to the survey, which he argues undermines the rights of Other Backward Classes (OBCs).
BJP leaders have expressed concerns regarding the survey’s intent and data safety. Tejasvi Surya has called for a boycott, labeling the exercise as “illegal” and politically motivated, while Pralhad Joshi has raised alarms about the collection of personal information, suggesting it could be misused. Karnataka BJP president BY Vijayendra clarified that while the party does not oppose a caste survey, it is against what it perceives as the Congress government’s “divisive intentions.” Additionally, Hubli MLA Mahesh Tenginkai has supported the boycott, arguing that the survey’s questionnaire is overly intrusive.
The Karnataka State Backward Classes Commission, responsible for conducting the survey, has condemned attempts to discourage participation, asserting that such actions contradict the spirit of the High Court’s order. Commission Chairperson Madhusudan Naik highlighted that the data collected will be instrumental in designing welfare schemes and reiterated that participation is voluntary.
Bengaluru Urban Deputy Commissioner G Jagadeesha reassured residents that no ration cards would be canceled during the survey and urged them to ignore rumors. The survey, which commenced on September 22, is set to continue until October 7, aiming to cover around 1.43 crore households across the state at an estimated cost of Rs 420 crore.
**FAQ**
**What is the purpose of the Social, Economic, and Educational Survey in Karnataka?**
The survey aims to gather comprehensive data on the social and economic status of all residents in Karnataka to ensure equitable representation and inform welfare schemes.