Former chairperson of the Karnataka State Commission for Backward Classes, H. Kantharaj, emphasized the critical need for regular socio-economic surveys or censuses to gauge the health of society during a recent press conference in Shivamogga. Highlighting the importance of understanding the prevalence of caste-based discrimination in India, Mr. Kantharaj underscored the significance of eradicating such bias to achieve true equality.
Emphasizing the relevance of socio-economic surveys in assessing societal well-being, Mr. Kantharaj shed light on a past survey conducted during his tenure as head of the Commission. He stressed the need for continued efforts in this area to ensure a more equitable society. Reflecting on the enduring influence of caste dynamics in Indian society, Mr. Kantharaj underscored the importance of leveraging surveys and censuses to deepen our understanding of these complex social structures.
Expressing gratitude towards the State Cabinet for acknowledging the survey report he had completed, Mr. Kantharaj commended the government’s commitment to addressing social justice issues. He lauded Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s dedication to promoting equality and inclusivity within the state. The upcoming discussion on the survey report during the Cabinet meeting on April 17, 2025, holds promise for advancing the objectives outlined in the report.
Historically, caste details were collected as part of the annual census until 1931, with a comprehensive caste census notably absent in recent decades. However, a significant milestone was achieved in 2015 when the Karnataka Government successfully completed a comprehensive survey that spanned all households in the state. This survey, characterized by its meticulous approach, involved door-to-door visits by enumerators, ensuring the inclusion of even homeless individuals in the data collection process.
Mr. Kantharaj acknowledged the inherent challenges in capturing the entire population within a survey, noting that despite the Commission’s best efforts, some households may have been inadvertently omitted. Factors such as locked houses presented logistical hurdles that are common in large-scale survey initiatives. Moreover, responding to criticisms regarding the scientific rigor of the survey, Mr. Kantharaj defended the methodology employed, citing consultations with experts, legal precedents, and previous commission reports that informed the survey design.
In a society where caste dynamics continue to shape social interactions and opportunities, the call for comprehensive surveys and censuses to illuminate these structures becomes increasingly urgent. By unpacking the intricate layers of caste-based discrimination and its impact on societal health, initiatives like the survey undertaken by the Karnataka Government pave the way for informed policy decisions and targeted interventions to foster a more inclusive and equitable society. The commitment to social justice, as championed by leaders like Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, underscores the ongoing efforts to address systemic inequalities and promote a more harmonious social fabric.
