Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar Engages Vokkaliga Legislators on Caste Survey Report

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar recently engaged in discussions with Congress legislators from the Vokkaliga community. The focus was on the caste census, and he plans to present their collective opinion to the Cabinet on April 17. Although specific details were not disclosed, Shivakumar emphasised the importance of conveying a unified message to the Cabinet.

Shivakumar stated, "I have tried to inform our legislators about the contents of the report to an extent… legislators have shared their opinion….we have discussed on what has to be told to the cabinet in one voice and we will place it accordingly." This meeting included not only Vokkaliga Congress legislators but also Ministers Ramalinga Reddy, Krishna Byre Gowda, Sudhakar, Cheluvarayaswamy, and former State Backward Classes Commission Chairperson Jayaprakash Hegde.

Survey Findings and Political Implications

The Karnataka State Commission for Backward Classes report was presented to the cabinet last Friday. A special cabinet meeting is set for April 17 to discuss its findings. The survey's results reportedly challenge traditional views on caste population numbers, particularly concerning the Veerashaiva-Lingayats and Vokkaligas. Ministers from these communities are expected to voice their concerns at the upcoming meeting.

The Vokkaligara Sangha, representing the influential Vokkaliga community, officially protested against the survey report earlier this week. They criticised it as "unscientific" and demanded a new survey. They warned of strong protests if the government proceeds with the current report.

Community Reactions and Government Response

The survey estimates the Lingayat population at 66.35 lakh and the Vokkaliga population at 61.58 lakh. When asked about these figures, Shivakumar said, "We are not worried or thinking about one community, as Congress president and ministers, protecting all communities is our duty and we will work accordingly." He stressed that they are not looking for errors in how the report was prepared.

Shivakumar noted that opposition parties are attempting to create confusion through media reports. He assured that they would address these issues appropriately. He also mentioned that it was under a previous Congress government in 2015 that this survey was commissioned, with significant funds allocated for it.

Media Reports and Clarifications

Shivakumar pointed out that some media outlets are misreporting facts about the survey's contents, particularly regarding Muslim population figures. Earlier, Shivakumar, along with other Vokkaliga ministers, signed a memorandum urging the chief minister to reject the report's findings and data.

The ongoing discussions highlight the complex political landscape surrounding caste demographics in Karnataka. As leaders prepare for further deliberations, they aim to ensure fair representation and address community concerns effectively.