Karnataka's Caste Survey Sparks Political Controversy

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah confirmed on Friday that the socio-educational survey of backward castes will move forward, dismissing rumors of dissent within his cabinet. He emphasized that the Backward Class Commission, a statutory body, would handle the survey logistics independently.

Siddaramaiah refuted claims that some ministers opposed or requested a delay of the survey, amidst political tensions. He criticized the BJP for portraying the Congress government as anti-Hindu and insisted that the survey would not be postponed as ministers were misrepresented.

Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje accused Siddaramaiah of utilizing caste as a political tool. She alleged that his administration creates division within castes and sub-castes for political maneuvering, warning that this divides society and manipulates minority reservations.

(With inputs from agencies.)