The Karnataka government has allocated ₹3.6 crore for a comprehensive caste survey of Scheduled Castes (SC) in Bengaluru. However, the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has come under scrutiny for alleged misuse of funds and irregularities in the survey process.
The initiative involves pasting survey stickers on homes and businesses, including bakeries and grocery shops. Reports claim that BBMP staff have affixed these stickers even in areas where no actual survey has taken place. In places like Thanisandra, stickers marking “survey completed” have appeared on commercial establishments, raising concerns about the legitimacy of the data.
A detailed breakdown of the ₹3.6 crore expenditure includeincludees ₹2.47 for each sticker, ₹5 for pasting, ₹7.47 for printing, and ₹6 for wall posters. Additionally, two short films meant to raise awareness on social media reportedly cost ₹49.5 lakh to produce. Promotion on Facebook and Instagram cost another ₹28 lakh, while ₹11 lakh was spent on hiring 14 auto-rickshaws for a week-long audio campaign across 28 constituencies. Other expenses include ₹6 lakh for awareness activities, ₹22.2 lakh for posters, ₹5 lakh for two cameras, and ₹2.98 lakh for hiring actors. There are also line items for a director, assistant crew, SD cards, and pen drives.
Despite this expenditure, officials admit that only around 60% of the survey has been completed in the city. The public has taken to social media to question the transparency and efficiency of the BBMP staff involved. The issue is now drawing public and political attention.