Karnataka BJP criticises the Congress-led government over the inconclusive caste census Cabinet meeting. CM Siddaramaiah faces backlash for using the report to divert attention from key governance issues, while ministers remain divided. Final decision on the caste census report expected on May 2.
The Karnataka BJP on Thursday launched a scathing attack on the state government over the inconclusive outcome of the special Cabinet meeting held to discuss the caste census, accusing the Congress-led government of orchestrating a political drama to deflect public attention from core governance issues.
Karnataka Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka sharply criticised Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, likening the ongoing caste census saga to a “never-ending television serial.” He said the government was using the caste census as a distraction from rising prices, worsening law and order, and a slowdown in development.
Ashoka questioned the intent behind the Cabinet meeting, pointing out that no concrete decision was reached. “What was achieved in today’s special Cabinet meeting? If no resolution could be made, what was the point?” he asked. He also alleged that the Chief Minister’s decision to seek written responses from ministers indicates internal mistrust and could potentially be used for political blackmail.
The special Cabinet meeting was convened to discuss the 2015 Social and Educational Survey, often referred to as the caste census. However, after an extended discussion, the meeting ended without conclusion. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah asked Cabinet members to submit their opinions either orally or in writing by the next meeting.
Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and several other ministers, including S.S. Mallikarjun, reportedly voiced strong opposition to the caste census report. Meanwhile, Minister H.K. Patil said that more technical details are needed to proceed with the deliberations and confirmed that senior officials have been asked to provide additional data.
Speaking to the media, Patil confirmed that the Cabinet discussion was cordial and focused on key concerns like backwardness based on population data and methodology of the survey. He said that the next Cabinet meeting will be held on April 24 at Male Mahadeshwara Hills, with a final decision expected on May 2.
Patil also addressed media reports and public speculation, stating that while some figures being circulated are inaccurate, the government has covered over 94% of the population in the survey. He emphasised the need to clarify misconceptions and base decisions on complete and verified data.
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge commented that conducting caste censuses is within the jurisdiction of individual states and supported the state’s right to carry it out. However, he added that he has not personally seen the report and that further developments depend on the state government’s deliberations.
