Karnataka Vokkaligara Sangha Calls for Caste Census Under Retired Judge; Welcomes New Survey Decision

Bengaluru: The Karnataka Vokkaligara Sangha has urged the government to conduct a caste census survey under the leadership of a retired judge.

Speaking at a press conference, Sangha President B. Kenchappagowda stated that the report prepared during the tenure of Kantharaju, the former chairman of the Permanent Backward Classes Commission, was unscientific. He noted that nine years had passed since that report was prepared, and since surveys are required every 10 years, the old report was irrelevant. "We welcome the government's decision to reject the old report and conduct a new survey. However, saying that the old report should be reviewed and corrected is not right," he emphasized. He further added that the survey should be conducted using digital facilities, and past mistakes should not be repeated, urging political representatives to cooperate.

Kenchappagowda informed that community leaders at district and taluk levels would cooperate with the new survey, and other communities should also extend their cooperation. He acknowledged that conducting the survey within a three-month period might not be feasible, emphasizing that even if delayed, it should be conducted properly. He also mentioned that a separate digital survey would be conducted even if the central and state governments conduct their own surveys. The press conference was attended by Sangha Honorary President Yeluvalli Ramesh, Vice President L. Srinivas, G. Raju, President of the Sangha's Dental College Governing Body, and Venkataramegowda, President of the Purchase Committee, among others.

"Opposing a new survey is not right," said Baguru Manjegowda, Working President of the Sangha. "There are over 6,000 villages in the state. If officers are appointed to each village and data is collected comprehensively, complete information will be available. A scientific survey will facilitate providing appropriate facilities to all communities."