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News India Live, Digital Desk: Karnataka Caste Survey: A major survey is scheduled to begin in Karnataka from 22 September, which aims to find out the social and educational status of the people of the state. But just before this survey, a decision has been taken which has launched a new debate in the state. The Karnataka State Backward Classes Commission has decided to remove 57 Christian sub-castes from the list of this survey.
After this decision, now these 57 sub-castes will not be counted separately in the survey. This decision has come after increasing political pressure in the state and opposition from many social organizations.
After all, why was there an objection to these names?
The root of the dispute was some of the names included in the survey. In fact, some sub -castes were added to the list, which were made in front of the name of Hindu castes by putting ‘Christians’, such as ‘Vokkaliga Christian’, ‘Lingayat Christian’, ‘Kuruba Christian’ etc.
Those opposing this said that this method is wrong. He raised some serious questions:
- Fear of double benefits: People were afraid that people who become Christians in this way could take double advantage of reservation – one on the basis of their original backward caste and the other under minority quota.
- Accused of promoting conversion: Many people saw it as an attempt to promote conversion. He argued that this would send a message to the people that they can change religion even without losing their caste identity.
- Trying to divide society: BJP and many other organizations described it as a conspiracy to divide Hindu society.
What does the government and commission say?
Amid the rising uproar, the Backward Classes Commission decided to remove these 57 sub-castes from the list. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah also made it clear that his government does not intend to share any society. He said that the Backward Classes Commission is an independent institution and the government does not interfere in its work.
He also clarified that the person who is Christian in the survey will be counted as Christians, not as ‘Vokkaliga Christian’ or ‘Lingayat Christian’.
What will happen next?
After this decision, these sub-castes will not be named in the survey. Survey employees will enter such cases in ‘other’ and in the category. However, people can give information about their previous caste if they want, but it will also be written in ‘others’.
The whole matter shows how critical the issue of caste, religion and reservation in Karnataka and how even a small step can give rise to a big political and social dispute.
