Wed Apr 16 18:37:45 UTC 2025: ## Karnataka Cabinet to Decide Fate of Controversial Backward Classes Survey

**Bengaluru, April 17, 2025** – The Karnataka Cabinet is set to decide the fate of a controversial Socio-Economic and Educational Survey conducted by the Karnataka State Commission for Backward Classes on Thursday. The survey has sparked intense political debate, with major communities, particularly the Vokkaligas and Veerashaiva-Lingayats, opposing its findings while backward class leaders defend its scientific methodology.

The upcoming special Cabinet meeting follows a period of political maneuvering between leaders from opposing groups. While some community leaders are calling for a complete rejection of the report, others suggest focusing on disputing specific aspects, such as the population data, while accepting the socio-economic findings. The possibility of establishing a sub-committee to comprehensively review the report and recommend appropriate action is also being considered.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has assured that no community will face injustice and that a decision will be reached during Thursday’s meeting. He responded to calls from a legislator urging Lingayat representatives to resign in protest, stating that the Cabinet would make the final decision.

Meanwhile, the Akhila Bharata Veerashaiva Mahasabha is seeking legal counsel and plans to meet with community legislators and ministers following the Cabinet meeting. Similar discussions are underway within the Vokkaliga community, with internal disagreements on the best strategy to respond to the survey. Logistical issues and planned protests are delaying some meetings until after the Cabinet’s decision.

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