Koppal: Karnataka Backward Classes Welfare Minister Shivaraj Tangadagi has confirmed that the upcoming Social and Educational Survey will include separate columns for Christian and Muslim sub-castes. He said the decision was taken after repeated demands and clarified that citizens are free to register their caste as they choose.
Speaking at a press conference, Tangadagi explained that the survey format also includes a column for atheists. He urged people to raise any objections directly with the Backward Classes Commission. “If there are complaints about the survey list, people should submit them to the Commission,” he said.
The minister accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of attempting to mislead the public even before the survey begins. He stressed that enumerators have been instructed to provide applications a day in advance to ensure people have time to fill in their details accurately.
The statewide exercise, commonly known as the caste census, is scheduled to begin on September 22. The government has described the survey as an important step in understanding the economic, social, and educational status of different communities in Karnataka. Officials believe the data will play a key role in shaping welfare policies and improving resource allocation.
The inclusion of Christian and Muslim sub-caste options marks a significant shift, as earlier surveys did not provide detailed categories for minority communities. The government has said this measure will help bring greater clarity and representation in policy planning.
