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Karnataka Socio‑Educational Survey Drops Christian Sub‑Caste Labels Before Launch

Officials say the exercise will start on September 22 to collect socio‑educational data using an 'others' field for any Christian caste labels.

Overview

  • The Backward Classes Commission removed Christian‑linked caste labels from its handbook after objections by BJP leaders, caste groups and a suggestion from Governor Thaawar Chand Gehlot.
  • Enumerators will no longer see those entries in the mobile app, and any self‑identification such as 'Brahmin Christian' will be recorded under an 'others' category, including disclosures of pre‑conversion caste.
  • The survey is scheduled for September 22 to October 7, with about 1.61 lakh survey blocks assigned and each enumerator targeting roughly 150 households using a mobile application.
  • Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and commission officials said the disputed labels reflected identities recorded in earlier exercises, underscoring that the goal is to measure social and educational backwardness.
  • Opposition figures continue to criticise the framework as encouraging conversion, but the government says the survey will proceed on schedule despite calls for postponement during the holiday period.