The survey, yet to be announced officially, gives Dalits the lead, followed closely by Muslims and various backward classes, signaling a departure from the perceived dominance of the Lingayats.
Mohammad Alamullah | Clarion India
NEW DELHI – Significant demographic shifts have been noticed in the Kant Raj Commission’s caste survey report in Karnataka. While the report is yet to be announced officially, attempts to suppress its findings suggest a potential upheaval in the state’s social and political landscape.
The survey, conducted at a cost of approximately Rs 200 crore, reportedly challenges the long-standing notion that the population of the Lingayat community is the largest in the state. The survey, according to reports, gives Dalits the lead, followed closely by Muslims and various backward classes, signaling a departure from the perceived dominance of the Lingayats.
The report, if accepted and implemented, promises to bring about substantial benefits to Dalits, Muslims, and other backward classes. It hints at a newfound political, educational, social, and economic empowerment for these sections of society, potentially reshaping their role and participation in the state’s affairs.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, recognising the potential positive impact on these marginalised communities, seems inclined to endorse the report. It is speculated that he views this as a step towards addressing the imbalance in political representation and economic participation in the state.
To rally support for the implementation of the Kant Raj Commission report, a grand gathering named “Karnataka Shwissht Samodaryeh Maha Vikot” has been organised under the joint banner of Dalits, Backward Classes, Adivasi Tribals, and pro-people organisations. The event, scheduled for January 28 at Chittar, is expected to be inaugurated by the chief minister.
Political Secretary to the chief minister and a minister Naseer Ahmed stressed the seriousness of the event. He urged a significant turnout of Muslims, who reportedly form the largest population in the state according to the survey. Ahmed believes that the report holds the potential to be a milestone in the political, social, educational, and economic development of the Muslim community in Karnataka.
Media reports quoted Ahmed as saying that Muslim participation in the event is crucial. He also underscored the positive impact the report could have on their future prospects. He acknowledged the strategic approach taken by Dalits and other backward classes in organising the “Karnataka Shwissht Samodaryeh Maha Vikot” under the “Vikot” banner, thanking them for their initiative.
As the state eagerly awaits the official announcement of the caste survey report, the unfolding events suggest a potential reconfiguration of Karnataka’s sociopolitical landscape, with marginalised communities poised to claim a more significant role in the state’s development.
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Representational photo
