Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has confirmed that there was no opposition from any minister within the state Cabinet to the caste census report submitted recently by the Karnataka State Commission for Backward Classes. The Chief Minister’s statement aims to put to rest growing speculation about internal disagreements in the government over the politically sensitive report.
Speaking at a press briefing, Siddaramaiah said, “There is complete consensus within the Cabinet regarding the caste census. No minister raised objections. In fact, everyone understands the importance of having accurate data to ensure justice in governance.”
The caste census, originally commissioned during Siddaramaiah’s previous tenure as CM in 2015, was prepared by the State Commission under Justice H. Kantharaj. It aims to provide detailed demographic data on social, educational, and economic indicators across caste groups in Karnataka, particularly focusing on backward classes.
In recent days, media reports had suggested that some senior Congress leaders had expressed discomfort with the findings of the report, which allegedly show a different social composition than what has been politically assumed. However, Siddaramaiah firmly rejected these claims and reiterated that the government is committed to implementing measures based on data-driven insights.
“The objective is not to divide society, but to understand it better. Only with a true picture of social realities can we make policies that uplift the marginalized and ensure equitable distribution of resources,” he added.
The CM also hinted that the caste census findings would be crucial in shaping future welfare programs, especially regarding reservation quotas, educational schemes, and employment policies for backward communities. He said the government would initiate a thorough discussion in the Assembly and consult with various stakeholders before implementing key recommendations.
Opposition parties have been cautious in their responses. While the BJP has questioned the timing of the report, accusing the Congress government of playing vote-bank politics, JD(S) leaders have demanded the report be made public in its entirety to ensure transparency.
Civil society groups and social justice advocates, meanwhile, have welcomed the government's stand, noting that caste-based data is essential for correcting historical inequalities and designing inclusive governance strategies.
The Karnataka caste census is the first of its kind in recent years in India and is expected to trigger similar demands in other states. Siddaramaiah’s clarity on Cabinet support may pave the way for bolder policy steps in the months ahead.
