Following the contentious caste census, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has announced a statewide survey to gather empirical data on Scheduled Caste (SC) sub-castes. The exercise, scheduled from May 5 to 17, aims to ensure equitable distribution of reservation benefits and strengthen the State’s commitment to social justice.
Addressing a press conference, Siddaramaiah said, “This survey ensures that no community is left behind in Karnataka’s development journey.”
The survey will be conducted in three phases: door-to-door visits, special camps, and an online self-declaration option. A one-member commission headed by retired High Court Judge Nagamohan Das will oversee the process, he said.
Over 65,000 schoolteachers have been deployed as enumerators, supported by supervisors at a ratio of one for every 10–12 surveyors. Citizens can share their sub-caste details through home visits, attend special camps between May 19–21, or submit information online from May 19–23, he explained.
The move comes after the Supreme Court, on August 1, 2024, ruled that states can introduce internal quotas for Scheduled Castes, provided they have empirical backing. The Nagamohan Das Commission had earlier highlighted the need for verified population data before such policies are implemented.
The commission is expected to submit its report within 60 days of data collection, after which the government will finalise revised reservation frameworks.
Published on May 5, 2025