Karnataka CM Critiques Sudha Murty Over Caste Survey Withdrawal

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has publicly criticized Sudha Murty and her husband, Narayana Murthy, for opting out of the state government’s caste-based socio-economic survey. In remarks made on October 13, 2023, Siddaramaiah expressed his belief that their decision was based on misinformation regarding the survey’s objectives. He questioned whether they would take a similar stance if the central government initiated a caste census.

Siddaramaiah emphasized that the survey, which aims to cover approximately seven crore residents of Karnataka, is intended to gather economic, educational, and social data across all demographic groups. “It is wrong to think of the survey as merely targeting backward classes,” Siddaramaiah stated during a press briefing. He added that the upcoming caste census by the central government raises the question of whether the Murty family would similarly refuse to participate.

The Chief Minister further articulated that the survey is designed to include individuals from various backgrounds, including those from both economically disadvantaged and upper caste communities. “This is a comprehensive survey that encompasses the entire population,” he asserted, highlighting the government’s efforts to communicate the survey’s significance to the public through advertisements.

The criticisms were echoed by Priyank Kharge, Karnataka’s Minister for IT and BT, who expressed disappointment over Sudha Murty’s refusal to participate. Kharge described it as surprising that a member of parliament would make such statements, implying that her decision might have been influenced by leaders from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He stated, “It is unexpected for a parliament member to withdraw from a government initiative that collects essential socio-economic data.”

In a letter addressed to the Karnataka State Backward Classes Commission, Sudha Murty and Narayana Murthy formally communicated their decision to abstain from the survey. They argued that their family does not identify with a backward community and, therefore, would not provide personal details for the census. “We and our family will not participate in the census, and we are confirming it through this letter,” the correspondence stated.

The socio-economic and educational survey began on September 22, 2023, and was initially scheduled to conclude on October 12, 2023. However, the timeline for Bengaluru has been extended to October 24, 2023, following a revision from the original deadline. The initiative aims to collect vital information that reflects the social and economic conditions of the state’s populace.

As the government continues to promote the survey, the controversy surrounding the Murty family’s withdrawal has sparked discussion about the importance of participation in such initiatives, which are crucial for informed policymaking and resource allocation in Karnataka.