Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Wednesday strongly defended the state government's move to re-conduct the caste census, calling it an inclusive decision aimed at addressing longstanding concerns across communities. In a pointed response to the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) criticism, Shivakumar questioned the opposition party’s intent, asserting that the government's effort was to ensure accuracy and fairness.
Speaking to reporters, Shivakumar said, "The BJP was opposed to the earlier caste census, citing data sanctity issues. We have announced a redo of the census, but the BJP is still opposing this too."
He clarified that the Congress-led government is not discarding the previous survey but rather building upon it. "The BJP did not accept the earlier caste census report. Why the opposition now when we are trying to address the concerns? We are not rejecting the earlier census, we are only trying to correct the shortcomings of the earlier survey in order to allay concerns of several communities," he explained.
On whether the revised survey would follow a scientific methodology, the Deputy CM said that the Cabinet will finalize the modalities, but stressed that inputs from several communities and party leaders were already being taken seriously. "Several communities, including Lambanis, Jains, and Bestha communities had met me and raised concerns on the earlier survey. The previous survey was also done scientifically through door-to-door visits, but some people were hesitant to share their caste details," he said.
He further added, "Our national leaders have given us certain guidelines. The AICC President too has given us many suggestions. The CM will discuss this in the Cabinet meeting and make a decision."
When asked whether the decision was taken under pressure from dominant communities, Shivakumar responded candidly: "We have yielded to the pressures from all communities. We have yielded to the pressure from the media too."
Notably, the Veerashaiva and Vokkaliga seers have expressed their support for the government’s move. "Seers from Veerashaiva and Vokkaliga communities called me up and welcomed the decision. I appeal to all the seers to nudge their community members to participate in the survey and provide correct details," he said.
Downplaying suggestions that this move was his personal political victory, the Deputy CM said, "There is no winner or loser in this matter."
He also responded to concerns about duplicity in efforts, given that the Centre has announced a caste census along with the general census. "This is our Party's agenda, the BJP has copied it. Rahul Gandhi has always been advocating proportionate representation for the backward classes," Shivakumar asserted.
Responding to a question on the ED raids on Congress MLAs and MPs in the alleged Valmiki Corporation corruption case, he firmly stated: "There is no link between our MLAs and Valmiki Corporation scam. Our leaders have not used the money in any election. As much as 90% of the money misused by the officials has been recovered."
