A major controversy has erupted in Karnataka over the mysterious disappearance of the original Kantharaj Commission caste census report, even as the government pushes ahead with policy decisions based on a revised report submitted in 2023 by the K. Jayaprakash Hegde-led Backward Classes Commission.
Hegde shocked the public by admitting, “The original data could not be located. We had to rely on sample-based data.” This revelation triggered political backlash, with opposition leader R. Ashoka questioning the legitimacy of decisions based on a non-comprehensive report, calling it a “gross injustice.”
The JD(S) joined in, branding the revised report a “political tool to sway vote banks.” Adding fuel to the fire, a leaked 2023 letter by Hegde suggested that sealed boxes containing original data were opened in 2021, but key documents including the blueprint were missing or unsigned.
Despite spending ₹160 crore on the original survey, no formal probe has been launched, raising serious concerns over transparency and accountability. “Even now, no one knows where the original report is,” a senior official stated.
While Home Minister G. Parameshwara defended the revised report as “scientific and statistically valid,” sociologist Dr. BN Savitha warned against using sample data for caste-based policy. “It may not withstand legal scrutiny,” she cautioned.
As calls for an investigation grow louder, the fate of caste-based policymaking in Karnataka hangs in the balance.
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