Sat Apr 19 14:09:01 UTC 2025: ## Karnataka Caste Census Report Faces Opposition from Dominant Castes
**Mysuru, Karnataka – April 19, 2025** – The recently released Socio-Economic and Educational Survey (caste census) in Karnataka has sparked controversy, with leaders from dominant castes voicing strong opposition. K.S. Shivaram, president of the Backward Classes Forum, criticized this opposition, asserting that any errors in the report can be rectified, and that rejecting the entire survey indicates bias. He emphasized the survey’s aim to ensure justice for all communities, including the most marginalized, and accused some upper-caste individuals of opposing it for political reasons.
Shivaram specifically challenged Congress legislator Shamanur Shivashankarappa, who expressed concerns about potential backlash from the caste census, to win elections solely on the votes of the Lingayat community if he believes their numbers are sufficient. Shivaram argued that the backward classes constitute a majority of the state’s population and deserve greater political representation, highlighting the disparity between their numbers and their representation in government. He also noted that economically weaker sections exist within all communities, including Vokkaligas, Lingayats, and Brahmins.
Yogesh, president of the District Uppar Association, attributed the opposition to an “inherent intolerance” among upper castes toward the recent election of a backward class leader as Chief Minister. While acknowledging potential errors (like underreporting the Uppar community population), Yogesh stated the report is largely accurate and correctable. The debate highlights the deep-seated social and political tensions surrounding caste in Karnataka.
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