Sudha Murty and Narayan Murthy Decline Karnataka Caste Survey Participation: Government Respects Decision

Sudha Murty and Narayan Murthy declined to take part in the survey, stating that neither identifies as belonging to a backward community.

Bengaluru:

Karnataka's government has accepted Sudha Murty's decision to not disclose her caste in a voluntary statewide survey, while questioning if the BJP-nominated Rajya Sabha MP would maintain the same stance during a central government census.

Labor Minister Santosh Lad stated that Murty's refusal was "her choice" and added, "As a government, we cannot compel anyone to take part in this."

READ: Sudha Murty, Family Refuse To Participate In Karnataka Caste Survey

He expressed respect for Sudha Murty's stance on the matter. However, he suggested that she should maintain consistency when the central government conducts its own survey. "I hope she can express the same position then as well," he remarked.

The minister also minimized the influence of prominent figures like Sudha Murty, who is married to Infosys founder Narayan Murthy. "The definition of influential is subjective. It's quite debatable. I don't believe it would significantly affect society," he commented.

Both Sudha Murty and Narayan Murthy opted out of the survey.

Why Did Murty Not Participate? The influential couple declined participation, indicating that neither identifies as part of a backward community.

Murty signed a statement explaining that providing information about the family's caste would not assist the government in their situation. She also mentioned "personal reasons" for withholding information.

The state government was implementing the Social and Educational Survey. This initiative is being conducted by the Karnataka State Commission for Backward Classes (KSCBC).

Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar also commented, saying, "We cannot force anyone to participate in the survey, it must be done voluntarily."

Survey Is Optional Participation in the statewide survey, which commenced on September 22, is voluntary according to the High Court's September 25 ruling. The survey, with an estimated cost of Rs 420 crore, contains 60 questions and is scheduled to conclude by October 19. A report will be submitted to the state government by year-end.