Bengaluru, June 12 (UNI) Karnataka Minister Santosh Lad on Thursday launched a scathing attack on the BJP-led central government over its shifting stance on caste census, accusing it of political hypocrisy and ideological inconsistency, even as the Siddaramaiah-led state government is poised to take a final decision on the caste re-enumeration exercise at a special cabinet meeting.
Lad, who has previously advocated for caste enumeration, questioned the BJP's sudden endorsement of the exercise.
"For the past 11 years, the BJP has been in power and has ideologically opposed OBC reservations, the Mandal Commission, and all forms of reservation. Yet, they introduced 10 per cent reservation for the economically weaker sections among forward castes. And now, the same people who opposed OBC and caste census are suddenly saying they will do it tomorrow. What is the reason? It’s nothing but political gimmickry," he said.
Speaking to media, Lad said the Congress government has already spent Rs 160 crore on the caste survey — largely from state resources and with limited Central assistance. "That concern about taxpayers’ money is valid. But rather than debating how much more will be required, let us first complete this in the cabinet. I will provide more details once a final decision is taken," he added.
Lad said the Centre's interest in the caste census surfaced only after the recent developments in Pehalgam, indicating that the timing was aimed at deflecting public attention. "When did they ever announce anything about this earlier? Only after the Pehalgam incident. This is reactionary politics," Lad remarked.
The minister reiterated the Congress party's consistent commitment to social justice. "We have always been at the forefront of pushing for caste census. We are now on the verge of completing caste survey (not caste census) — whether the Centre supports it or not."
Meanwhile, Karnataka Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister HK Patil said the government is seriously considering the matter in view of increasing public and organisational demands.
"When this issue was first raised, even several BJP leaders had acknowledged the need for it, recognising public sentiment. Our Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister travelled to Delhi yesterday and held detailed discussions. Feedback from multiple stakeholders, including religious organisations, has been conveyed to our high command," Patil said.
"In light of these views, our Chief Minister indicated that we may consider some of the demands put forward. A final decision will be taken shortly at the special cabinet meeting that is scheduled to begin within the next half an hour," he added.
Lad also confirmed that a red alert had been issued in parts of the state. "I was scheduled to travel today but had to skip the cabinet meeting due to the alert. I will likely travel tonight or tomorrow. The situation is under control for now, but we are monitoring it closely," he said.
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