Overview

• Karnataka's caste survey reveals OBCs constitute 70% of the population, with Vokkaligas and Lingayats underrepresented compared to previous estimates.
• Proposed increases in OBC reservations from 32% to 51% could push total quotas to 85%, requiring Supreme Court approval to exceed the 50% cap.
• Vokkaliga and Lingayat leaders have criticized the survey as unscientific and threatened statewide protests over perceived underrepresentation.
• Internal divisions within the Congress party have emerged, with leaders debating the report's implications for electoral strategy and coalition stability.
• Rahul Gandhi's push for a national caste census ties into broader efforts to consolidate OBC support, a key demographic for upcoming elections.