Karnataka Caste Census Stirs Controversy Over Personal Questions

Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister, D K Shivakumar, urged officials conducting the Social and Educational Survey, commonly referred to as the 'caste census', to refrain from posing overly personal questions. He stressed the importance of public participation despite contentious questions raised in the survey.

Shivakumar highlighted that the survey, initiated by the Karnataka State Commission for Backward Classes on September 22 and running until October 7, is voluntary. The court has affirmed that individuals can selectively respond, dismissing uncomfortably intrusive questions.

Despite pushback regarding personal questions, Shivakumar assured the survey's continuation. The Karnataka High Court denied halting the survey but mandated the confidentiality of gathered data. Conducted at an estimated Rs 420 crore, the survey aims to be a systematic endeavor.

(With inputs from agencies.)