16-05-2025
Forum of backward classes demands CM release survey report
Expressing disappointment over the delay in releasing the report of the Socio-Economic and Educational Survey conducted by the Karnataka State Commission for Backward Classes, the forum of backward classes in Shivamogga has demanded that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah either resign or show decisive leadership for the emancipation of backward classes.
In a press conference in Shivamogga on Friday, Ti. Na. Srinivas, district president of Hindulida Vargagala Okkuta, said Mr. Siddaramaiah ordered the survey during his first tenure as Chief Minister. Even two years after his second tenure began, the government had not released the survey report to the public.
'The report came before the State Cabinet as well. However, its release has been delayed. Some vested interests are stopping the report from being released,' he alleged.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi had spoken about a caste census many times. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also announced to include caste enumeration in the next census. 'Top leaders of both parties are in favour of the caste census. However, a few politicians belonging to dominant castes are opposing the caste census. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah should take a firm decision and release the report. If he could not release it, he should resign. If he was committed to the welfare of the backward classes, he should emulate former Chief Minister Devaraj Urs, who accepted L.G. Havanur's report despite opposition in his tenure,' Mr. Srinivas said.
Rachappa, a retired professor, said that the recommendations of the survey report would benefit all castes in the backward classes. The report recommended an increase in the reservation under all categories in the backward classes, he said.
