Overview

• The Karnataka Cabinet formally accepted the findings of the 2015 caste census on April 11 but deferred further discussions to May 2, 2025, with no immediate decision expected.
• The survey, conducted in 2015, indicates backward classes make up 70% of the state’s population and recommends increasing OBC reservations from 32% to 51%, surpassing the Supreme Court's 50% cap.
• Political and community groups, including Vokkaliga and Veerashaiva-Lingayat leaders, have rejected the survey as outdated and unscientific, demanding a fresh enumeration.
• Experts warn that implementing the recommendations could face legal challenges, as the proposed reservation matrix would reach 85%, including SC/ST and EWS quotas.
• The Congress government, under pressure from its 2023 election manifesto and Rahul Gandhi's backing, is navigating interparty dynamics and community opposition in addressing the contentious report.