Caste War in Karnataka Congress

The caste census report in Karnataka has ignited a significant controversy within the Congress party. The report has led to differing opinions among party leaders, with allegations that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has given undue importance to the Kuruba community, to which he belongs. Leaders from the Lingayat and Vokkaliga communities within the party are strongly opposing the report.

On the 17th of this month, the Karnataka Cabinet is scheduled to hold a meeting to discuss the caste census report further.

Concerns Raised by Lingayat and Vokkaliga Leaders

The caste census report was presented to the state cabinet on the 11th of this month. According to the report, the estimated percentage of OBCs (Other Backward Classes) in the state is 69.6%, which is 38% higher than the previous estimate. Currently, the Vokkaliga and Lingayat communities are classified under the OBC 3A and 3B categories, respectively, with reservations of 12.2% and 13.6%. The report estimates their population at 17% and 15%, respectively, although the actual numbers appear to be lower. The report recommends increasing their percentage by 4 points and placing them under the 2B category, which would provide a modest increase in their reservation benefits.

However, the recommendation to increase the OBC quota has led to discontent among the Lingayat and Vokkaliga communities, who have traditionally held political dominance in the state. The increase in the OBC quota is expected to result in a higher seat allocation for other communities based on population, which could potentially affect the number of seats allotted to the constituencies traditionally represented by Lingayat and Vokkaliga leaders.

Deputy CM DK Shivakumar Holds Secret Meeting with Vokkaliga Leaders

In light of these developments, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, who belongs to the Vokkaliga community, has taken steps to ensure that the dominance of the Vokkaliga community within the Congress remains intact. He recently held a secret meeting with Vokkaliga MLAs and leaders to discuss the caste census and its implications.

BJP Criticizes Caste Survey

The caste census has also been heavily criticized by the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which has dismissed it as a politically motivated move by Congress to appease minorities. BJP leader R. Ashoka alleged that the data in the report was fabricated by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah himself to cater to the party’s vote bank, particularly in an attempt to gain favor with the minority communities.

The caste census report continues to be a flashpoint within Karnataka's political landscape, with the Congress party facing internal divisions, and the opposition accusing the party of using the census to manipulate voter sentiments ahead of upcoming elections.