Archive · 17 Sep 2025
Karnataka Caste Census: Political Disputes Erupt Over Survey
Karnataka's government plans a caste census to study communities.
The BJP opposes it, saying it lacks authority and aims to divide communities.
The survey aims to help with development programs.
BJP leaders fear division within the Veerashaiva-Lingayat community and object to including Christian sub-castes.
The government defends the survey, citing its importance for data-driven socio-economic planning, but the BJP claims it is politically motivated.
Enumerators will visit homes to collect data.
Karnataka government is conducting a socio-economic survey or caste census.
BJP leaders oppose the census, viewing it as politically motivated.
The survey's aim is to gauge the status of various communities.
BJP leaders, including B S Yediyurappa, have criticized the exercise.
The survey is scheduled to take place from September 22 to October 7.
- Who
- Karnataka Government, BJP, Veerashaiva-Lingayat community
- What
- Dispute over the Karnataka caste census.
- When
- Survey set for September 22 - October 7.
- Where
- Karnataka
- Why
- Disagreements over its intent and potential impact.
Karnataka Government
BJP
Survey Authority
Karnataka Government
Essential to gather data for formulating development programs.
BJP
Government lacks the legal authority to conduct the census.
Religious Classification
Karnataka Government
Undisclosed
BJP
Inclusion of ‘Others’ in religion and Christian identifiers is objectionable.
Intent
Karnataka Government
Survey to help government planning.
BJP
Agenda to divide communities, especially Veerashaiva-Lingayat.
- Issue
- Karnataka Caste Census (Socio-Economic and Educational Survey)
- Dates
- September 22 to October 7
- Main Actors
- Karnataka Government, BJP
- Purpose
- Assess status of communities
- Surveyors
- 1.75 lakh teachers
Sources
Backward Class Commission doesn't have powers to conduct enumeration of all communities: Ex-CM Bommai
Codavas seek distinct census recognition to preserve identity
BC Class Commission can’t conduct enumeration of all communities
Delete Christian sub-castes from draft caste list: BJP
Govt agenda behind caste census is to divide Veerashaiva-Lingayat community’
