Karnataka's Caste Controversy: Kurubas and Caste Census Debate

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah declared on Wednesday that any decision regarding adding communities to the Scheduled Tribes (ST) list rests with the central government, with the state government responsible only for recommendations.

The ongoing discussion about including the Kurubas in the ST list has sparked opposition from some ST communities. Siddaramaiah, himself a member of the Kuruba community, maintained that eligibility, not opposition, would determine inclusion.

The state government is also conducting a social and educational survey, known as the caste census, prompting criticism from BJP leaders. Concerns have been raised about dual caste identities potentially facilitating religious conversions.

(With inputs from agencies.)