CM urges Centre to include socio-economic survey in census

Bagalkote

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Wednesday emphasized that the Central Government must go beyond caste data and also conduct a socio-economic survey to truly address social justice.

This comes after the Centre announced its decision to include caste enumeration in the upcoming national census, promising it would be carried out in a “transparent” manner.

Speaking to reporters, Siddaramaiah said, "We (Congress) had said in our manifesto that a socio-economic and caste census should be conducted. I don’t know whether they would do just a caste census or a socio-economic survey as well. I will react after going through it (Centre’s decision)."

He stressed that identifying the social and economic conditions of people was vital to implement fair and inclusive policies.
"They (Centre) have said they would do a census and caste census. Socio-economic survey is very important. If we have to do social justice, then socio-economic survey has to be done," he added.

Karnataka had previously completed a 'social and educational survey' covering 94% of its population, but internal disagreements delayed final decisions on its findings. A recent state cabinet meeting held on April 17, 2025, ended without resolution.

Addressing criticism over this, Siddaramaiah said he had asked ministers to submit their views in writing before the cabinet would take any final call.
"After the ministers submit their opinion in writing, we will present it in the cabinet and discuss the socio-economic survey report," he concluded.

Pro-Pakistan slogan row: CM warns of treason

Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah stated that supporting Pakistan or raising pro-Pakistan slogans is wrong and amounts to treason. He was reacting to the alleged lynching of Ashraf from Kerala, accused of shouting 'Pakistan Zindabad' during a cricket match near Mangaluru. Home Minister G Parameshwara confirmed Ashraf died from injuries and said 20 arrests have been made. The incident is under investigation, and action will follow based on findings.