Overview

• The state’s Social and Educational Survey, conducted by the Karnataka State Backward Classes Commission, is underway to gather data on all seven crore residents for welfare and representation planning.
• Chief minister Siddaramaiah urged full cooperation, called BJP opposition a ‘Manuvadi mindset,’ and pointed to similar surveys in Bihar and Telangana and the Centre’s own caste census move.
• Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Surya said he will not participate and questioned data security and intent, while Union minister Pralhad Joshi has also opposed the exercise.
• Leader of Opposition R. Ashoka alleged the process is rushed with irrelevant questions, advised caution in responses, and said the survey serves political ends.
• The Karnataka Congress wrote to BJP president J.P. Nadda seeking action against Joshi and Surya, as some religious leaders also urged a boycott citing the court’s order on voluntariness and privacy.