Thu Mar 27 14:17:29 UTC 2025: ## Karnataka to Conduct Fresh Survey of Scheduled Castes Population
**Bengaluru, March 27, 2025** – The Karnataka government announced today that it will conduct a new survey of the state’s Scheduled Castes (SC) population within the next two months. This decision follows a recommendation from the H.N. Nagamohan Das Commission, which submitted its interim report on Thursday. The survey aims to resolve confusion surrounding the nomenclature of various SC sub-groups, particularly “Adi Karnataka” and “Adi Dravida,” used by different Dalit communities, and to provide empirical data for deciding on long-pending demands for internal reservation.
The confusion over nomenclature affects approximately 13 districts. For instance, while some communities in districts like Davangere and Ballari use “Adi Karnataka,” others in Chamarajanagar and Mysuru use the same term, leading to inconsistencies. This ambiguity hinders the fair distribution of existing SC quotas (currently 17%).
The government plans to utilize modern technology to complete the survey within 30-40 days. The survey will involve collecting data on SC sub-castes to facilitate the classification needed for internal reservation. The commission’s tenure has been extended to oversee this process. Social Welfare Minister H.C. Mahadevappa stated that the work has already begun, with the Chief Secretary convening a meeting to finalize the modalities. The two-month deadline begins from Thursday.
The move comes after the Supreme Court cleared the way for internal reservation based on empirical data in August 2024. The government acknowledges the need for accurate data to avoid legal challenges, citing similar issues in other states. The current SC population is estimated to be between 1.25 crore and 1.30 crore, up from 1.04 crore in 2011. The internal reservation seeks to further divide the existing 17% quota among various Dalit sub-groups, including Korma, Koracha, and Lambani communities.
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