Karnataka to conduct SC survey for internal reservation

Bengaluru

The Karnataka Cabinet has approved the interim report submitted by Justice H N Nagmohan Das Commission and decided to conduct a survey of Scheduled Castes (SCs) in the state. This step aims to collect empirical data required for implementing internal reservation among SC communities.

The one-man commission, led by the retired High Court judge, presented its interim findings to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah just before the Cabinet meeting. With growing pressure from SC groups and Congress leaders, the government has opted to follow the commission’s recommendation to ensure fair distribution of the 17% reservation among 101 SC sub-castes.

Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister H K Patil confirmed the Cabinet’s decision, stating, "The Cabinet has accepted the interim report submitted by Justice Nagmohan Das Commission." To expedite the process, the commission will oversee the survey, which is expected to be completed within 40 days. The government has extended the commission’s tenure by two months to allow sufficient time for data collection.

The commission has proposed four key recommendations: conducting a fresh survey using advanced technology, preparing a questionnaire, forming a high-level committee for resource management, and ensuring equitable distribution of reservation based on scientific data.

Social Welfare Minister H C Mahadevappa assured that the survey would be completed swiftly under the Chief Secretary’s supervision, ensuring a legally sound process that prevents future legal disputes.