Bangalore: The release of the caste-based census report in Karnataka has sparked internal discord within the ruling Congress party, triggering strong resistance from influential communities, notably Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar.
The contrasting viewpoints among the state's leadership, particularly between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, have brought to the fore a rift within the Karnataka Congress.
DK Shivakumar, a supporter of the Vokkaligga community, voiced dissatisfaction with the findings of the caste-based census report. While expressing his general support for the concept of caste-based enumeration, Shivakumar emphasized the need for the government to take into account the demands and concerns raised by various communities.
In addition to Shivakumar, who hails from the influential Vokkaliga community, the protest against the report by the Vokkaligara Sangha, a community organization, has garnered support from several ministers and Congress legislators.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah remarked that he had not yet received the survey report and questioned the opposition from the Vokkaligga community even before its release.
"Karnataka was the pioneer in conducting a caste census across the country. Our government initiated this census to comprehend the economic, social, and financial status of each caste. However, subsequent governments did not acknowledge the census report," stated the Chief Minister.
Former Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa also expressed discontent with the caste-based census report, stating, "Nobody seems content with the findings of the caste-based census, which is evident from the opposition voiced by Vokkaligas and Lingayats."
Addressing the media, Yediyurappa, a BJP leader and former CM, highlighted the discontent surrounding the report.
Adding to the uproar, Karnataka BJP chief BY Vijayendra criticized the methodology of the report, labeling it as 'unscientific'.
"BJP doesn't oppose the concept of caste census, but the issue in Karnataka is the lack of scientific rigor in this particular enumeration. Many communities feel neglected in this process. If this census was ready during Siddaramaiah's previous tenure, why was it not addressed then? Why the rush during the Lok Sabha election, especially when Deputy CM DK Shivakumar opposes it?" questioned Karnataka BJP chief BY Vijayendra while speaking to the media.
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