Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Announces Fresh Caste Census

Karnataka's Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has announced a new Socio-Economic and Educational Survey to be conducted from September 22 to October 7. This decision comes as the caste census from 2015 was not accepted by the government. The Chief Minister emphasized the necessity of this survey to reflect current societal realities, given that a decade has passed since the last one.

The survey aims to address social disparities and strengthen democracy. "Many religions and castes exist in society. There is diversity and inequality too. The Constitution says everyone should be equal and social justice needs to be done," Siddaramaiah stated during a press conference. He highlighted the importance of this initiative in fostering equality.

Survey Implementation

The Karnataka State Commission for Backward Classes will oversee the survey, targeting nearly 7 crore people across two crore households. Each household will receive a Unique Household ID sticker, with 1.55 crore stickers already distributed. A comprehensive questionnaire with 60 questions will gather data on families' social, economic, political, and educational status.

To execute the survey, 1.85 lakh government teachers will be engaged during their Dasara vacation. They will receive an honorarium of up to Rs 20,000 each, totaling Rs 325 crores for their remuneration. The entire exercise is budgeted at Rs 420 crores, significantly higher than the Rs 165 crores spent in 2015.

Technological Measures

Technological measures are being implemented to ensure accuracy. Households will be geo-tagged using electricity meter numbers, while ration cards and Aadhaar details will link to mobile numbers. For those hesitant to disclose caste information directly, options include calling a dedicated helpline (8050770004) or submitting details online.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah appealed for public cooperation: "My humble request to every citizen of the state is to please participate in this survey. Please answer all the questions put forth by the enumerators truthfully and to the best of your knowledge." Asha Karyakartas will visit homes beforehand to provide application forms.

Survey Goals

Madhusudan Naik chairs the Commission responsible for conducting this survey scientifically and inclusively. The final report is anticipated by December 2025. Siddaramaiah remarked on persistent inequalities even decades post-independence: "Even decades after independence, inequality persists. To make our democracy stronger, we must eliminate these disparities."

This survey is expected to yield crucial data for designing effective welfare programmes that benefit everyone in Karnataka.