Shivakumar defends fresh caste census, slams opposition for ‘double standards’

Bengaluru

Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Thursday strongly defended the state government’s decision to redo the caste census, asserting that the exercise is meant to uphold social justice, not serve political interests.

Addressing reporters after a cabinet meeting, Shivakumar criticised opposition leaders for their inconsistent stance on the issue. “Those who objected to the earlier caste census are now opposing the fresh one too. Let them clearly state that they support the original census if they have objections to the new survey,” he said.

Taking aim at JD(S) leader HD Kumaraswamy and BJP leaders BY Vijayendra and R Ashok, Shivakumar challenged them to “hold a press conference and declare their support for the previous census” instead of merely criticising the government’s move. “We will give a fitting reply in the Assembly. The media should highlight the opposition’s contradictory positions. They are trying to politicise this issue unnecessarily,” he added.

Shivakumar clarified that the decision to redo the survey was taken after consultations with the public and MLAs. “This report was submitted on February 29 and has been discussed in the Cabinet five to six times. Even the opposition parties had demanded a re-survey. Anyone opposing it can challenge it legally under Section 11, but this exercise is crucial as the previous survey is already a decade old,” he explained.

On concerns raised by Lingayat and Vokkaliga communities during the earlier census, Shivakumar refused to comment but assured that the new survey would cover all communities, including Kannadigas residing outside Karnataka, who can submit their details online.

Dismissing suggestions that the decision was dictated by the Congress high command, he said, “The high command only issued guidelines. The state government decided to ensure that all sections of society are included in the new survey.”

Devastating’: D K Shivakumar on Ahmedabad air crash

Commenting on the tragic Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad, Shivakumar expressed deep sorrow. “It is devastating. My condolences to the families of the victims. This is shocking not just for the country but the world. My party and I stand with the bereaved families,” he said.

Asked if any Kannadigas were among the passengers, he responded, “Let’s not see this tragedy through the lens of region or language—Kannadiga, Gujarati, Tamilian. They are all Indians. Let’s pray for all of them.”