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Key Points

Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar emphasized the government's respect for public sentiment amid debates over redoing the caste survey. He acknowledged concerns about the decade-old data but affirmed the state's commitment to the Backward Classes Commission's policy. CM Siddaramaiah clarified that the decision to re-enumerate stems from the Congress high command, not the state government. The final call on the survey will be made after further consultations by June 22.

Key Points: DK Shivakumar Says Karnataka Respects All Lives Amid Caste Survey Debate

  • Karnataka govt acknowledges caste survey concerns
  • Congress high command seeks details before June 22 decision
  • Siddaramaiah says re-enumeration not state's call
  • Survey faces doubts over decade-old data
3 min read

We know sentiment of people and respect every life: Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar on Karnataka caste survey

Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar defends caste survey stance, says government respects public sentiment while addressing concerns over outdated data.

"We know the sentiment of people, we respect every life. – DK Shivakumar"

Bengaluru, June 11

Addressing the issue of re-conducting the caste survey in Karnataka, state Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar asserted that the government knows the "sentiment of people" and "respects every life".

Shivakumar highlighted that some people feel that a 10-year-old survey and a lot of money have been invested in it as well. He said that the government agrees with the survey but is worried about the numbers.

"We know the sentiment of people, we respect every life. We have collected information from various sections of society. Some of them feel that it is a 10-year-old survey which has been done, though we have spent a lot of money on that. But basically, we agree with the report, whatever the report is, but we are only worried about the numbers", DK Shivakumar told ANI.

The Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister further said that the government had to take a call on the caste survey by June 22, and before that, the Congress high command summoned both Shivakumar and CM Siddaramaiah.

He stated that the high command has asked for more details on the issue and has consulted with the media leaders. They have also showcased their agreement on the policy of the Karnataka Backwards Class Commission.

"On the 22nd (June), we were supposed to take a final call on that. Before that, my party's High Command had summoned us. They have asked for the details. They have consulted with media leaders, and they directed us, yes, you go by your policy of whatever the Backwards Class commission is there. Let no one be annoyed", DKS added.

Earlier, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said that the decision to reenumerate the caste census data was taken by the party high command and was not the decision of the state government.

Speaking to reporters, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said, "Some complaints have been received regarding the caste census. It has been 10 years since the survey was conducted, and it is old. In this context, party leaders have suggested that the census be conducted again in a short time. We will not reject the report. The report has been accepted in principle."

Responding to a question about his disappointment with the party's senior leaders' decision on the Kantharaj Commission report, he said, "We will take action as decided by the party seniors. This is not our decision."

Earlier on June 10, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar said that the caste census would be redone to allay doubts of various communities over the sanctity of data.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
If the survey is 10 years old, it makes sense to update it. Our society changes rapidly and policies should be based on current data. But government must ensure transparency - no community should feel sidelined. Hope they complete it before elections!
P
Priya M.
Another survey means more taxpayer money wasted! 🤦‍♀️ The government should focus on implementing existing welfare schemes properly rather than collecting data repeatedly. How many surveys do we need before actual development happens?
S
Sanjay T.
As a Kannadiga, I appreciate the government's careful approach. Caste is a sensitive issue in our state. The leaders are right to consult all stakeholders before deciding. But hope this doesn't become another political tool before elections.
A
Ananya R.
Why is the high command interfering in state matters? Karnataka leaders should have the freedom to decide what's best for their people. Centralized decision-making goes against federal principles. #StateRights
V
Vikram S.
The government's concern about "numbers" is telling. This isn't about welfare - it's about vote bank politics. If they truly respected every life as claimed, they'd focus on universal development rather than caste-based divisions. Disappointing.
N
Neha P.
Good move! Many communities have raised doubts about the old data. A fresh survey will bring clarity and help in better policy making. But please complete it efficiently - no delays like other states. Karnataka should set an example! 👍

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