BJP Karnataka President BY Vijayendra launched a sharp criticism against Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, accusing him of rushing to push forward the caste census report in an attempt to solidify his grip on power. Vijayendra suggested that Siddaramaiah's motivations were politically driven, claiming the Chief Minister was using the caste census as a 'brahmastra'—a last-ditch weapon or a powerful tool of desperation—to ensure he retains his position. He further alleged that Siddaramaiah's decision to hastily push the report was not based on genuine concern for the public, but rather an effort to protect his Chief Ministership, which he fears could be in jeopardy.
Vijayendra's criticism gained attention as he pointed out that even senior Congress leaders had privately admitted to flaws within the caste census report, adding weight to his argument that Siddaramaiah was acting out of political self-preservation. According to Vijayendra, the Chief Minister's haste in presenting the report was a calculated move to divert public attention away from increasing dissatisfaction with his administration, as well as ongoing controversies and scandals that have plagued his leadership. Vijayendra implied that Siddaramaiah was trying to manipulate the situation by using the caste census to shift the political narrative and save his position, even though, in Vijayendra’s view, his days in power were numbered.
In his remarks, Vijayendra expressed doubt over Siddaramaiah’s ability to maintain his leadership for much longer, predicting that the controversies surrounding his administration would ultimately undermine his authority. He argued that Siddaramaiah, rather than focusing on governance, was scrambling to hold on to his seat amidst growing pressure. Vijayendra went so far as to claim that Siddaramaiah was heavily relying on the caste census report as his 'brahmastra,' or ultimate weapon, to protect his political standing and avoid losing his position as Chief Minister.
On the other side of the debate, Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara came forward to defend the caste census and its legitimacy. Parameshwara highlighted that the caste census had been an ongoing process for several years, beginning during Siddaramaiah’s first tenure as Chief Minister in 2015. He stressed that the final report had already been submitted, and it was now up to the government to decide how best to utilize the data. Parameshwara insisted that the intention behind the caste census was not politically motivated but rooted in ensuring that government policies and programs are shaped based on accurate data and the actual socio-economic realities of the state.
In his defense of the census, Parameshwara called for an end to the political bickering and emphasized that the focus should remain on the findings themselves. He argued that instead of turning the caste census into a political battleground, the public and politicians alike should allow the data to speak for itself and use it as a basis for creating fair and equitable government programs. "Our aim is to shape government programs based on census realities, not politics," Parameshwara added, making it clear that the data-driven approach was meant to benefit all sections of society.
The Karnataka Caste Census, formally known as the Socio-Economic and Educational Survey, was initially launched during Siddaramaiah's first term in office to gather detailed caste-wise data. The purpose of the survey was to ensure that various caste groups within the state received proportional representation and benefits based on their socio-economic conditions. Although the data collection process for the caste census was completed in 2018, the findings have remained undisclosed to the public for several years, leading to much speculation and debate.Â
In November 2023, the Karnataka State Commission for Backward Classes finally submitted the completed report, but its findings have sparked controversy, with some groups voicing opposition to the results. These groups have questioned the accuracy and fairness of the data, further fueling the ongoing political debate surrounding the caste census. Despite this, Parameshwara maintained that the data would be used responsibly to inform future government policies and programs. However, with tensions high, it remains to be seen how the government will address both the criticisms and the findings of the caste census, as the issue continues to dominate political discussions in the state.
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