New Delhi
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stressed the need for a nationwide socio-economic survey to bring backward communities into the mainstream. Speaking at a press conference at Karnataka Bhavan in New Delhi on Friday, Siddaramaiah said such a survey is essential to collect comprehensive data on the economic, social, educational, and political conditions of every citizen.
He said Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is committed to conducting a socio-economic survey alongside the caste census. "Only when we have accurate data on all aspects of citizens' lives we can ensure social justice, which is the core value of our Constitution," Siddaramaiah asserted. He explained that the purpose of the AICC OBC division's 'Bhagidari Nyaya Sammelan' is to push for such reforms.
The CM clarified that this survey is not limited to OBCs but would cover all 7 crore people in Karnataka. He added that Karnataka had initiated a similar survey in 2015, but the 2018 coalition government did not accept its findings, leading to the need for a fresh enumeration.
Responding to the BJP’s criticism of the AICC OBC event, Siddaramaiah questioned the party’s commitment to social justice. He reminded that the BJP had opposed the Mandal Commission and affirmative action policies in the past.
On internal party matters, Siddaramaiah confirmed that a list of nominees for heads of state corporations has been prepared and submitted to the Congress high command, which will make the final decision. He also indicated that nominations to the Legislative Council could happen before the next session.
Siddaramaiah dismissed the BJP’s claim of Congress backing SDPI, saying, “Congress has never supported SDPI.” On the RCB celebration stampede, he said Justice Cunha’s report has been accepted, and several police officers have been suspended. The CM also said a recent clash at Karnataka Bhavan will be reviewed and confirmed at a meeting with Rahul Gandhi during the AICC legal cell convention on August 1–2.