Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Challenges Murthys' Understanding of State's Social Survey: Not Just for Backward Classes

Siddaramaiah highlighted that the Central government had also decided to conduct a national caste census.

Bengaluru:

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has publicly responded to Infosys founder NR Narayana Murthy and author Sudha Murty, suggesting they have misinterpreted the purpose of the state's voluntary social and educational survey, commonly known as the "caste survey".

The dispute began when the Murthys declined to participate in the survey, stating they "do not belong to any backward community" and that the survey "is meant for such groups." Their stance has ignited debate and faced significant criticism from the state government, which considers the survey crucial for understanding Karnataka's socio-economic landscape.

"See, it's left to them. This is not a survey of only the backward classes. If they don't understand this, what can I say? Are they Brihaspati if they are founders of Infosys?" remarked the Chief Minister, referencing the Hindu deity associated with wisdom.

He elaborated, "We have said it 20 times that this is not a survey of backward classes alone. It is the survey of the entire population - a socio-economic and educational survey for all seven crore people of Karnataka. Don't the upper castes get the benefits of schemes like Shakti or Gruha Lakshmi? I feel the wrong information has gone to them. That is why we have repeatedly given advertisements, and I, ministers, and others have been making statements to create awareness about this."

Siddaramaiah's statements follow reports from Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) officials that the Murthys refused to provide information when surveyors visited their residence. Sudha Murty even signed a self-declaration form declining participation.

Siddaramaiah noted that the Centre had also decided to undertake a national caste census. "If people like Narayana Murthy and Sudha Murty think this is only a survey of backward classes, then they are mistaken. Now the Centre will do the caste census. What will they say then?" he questioned. "They might have got the wrong information. This is a socio-economic and educational survey for the entire population."

He emphasized that even upper-caste and wealthy groups benefit from government initiatives. "Aren't upper-caste women and those above the poverty line availing the Shakti scheme? Aren't upper-caste people among the Gruha Lakshmi beneficiaries?" he asked.

The Chief Minister referenced two of his flagship welfare programs - Shakti and Gruha Lakshmi - as examples of inclusive governance. Shakti offers free travel for women in non-luxury state-operated buses, while Gruha Lakshmi provides Rs 2,000 monthly to women heads of households from economically disadvantaged sections. "It is wrong to think that only backward classes are being covered," he stated.

Despite numerous clarifications, Siddaramaiah expressed disappointment that "some misconceptions" continue among portions of the elite. "People should understand what this survey is about. What can I do if they are unable to understand?" he questioned.

Backward Classes Welfare Minister Shivaraj Tangadagi criticized the Murthys' refusal in more direct terms, describing it as demonstrating indifference toward social equity. "This shows their concern for the welfare of backward classes," Tangadagi remarked.

The survey, conducted by the Karnataka State Backward Classes Commission, commenced on September 22 and was originally set to conclude on October 7, but was extended to October 18. The government announced a school holiday until the survey's completion since many teachers were assigned survey responsibilities. Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar assured that the academic loss would be addressed through additional classes.