Bengaluru, August 7: Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar announced that the Congress government has conducted a socio-economic survey in the state and is committed to implementing it to ensure social justice.
Shivakumar made this statement during the inauguration of the 11th National Convention of the National OBC Federation at the Gyaan Jyoti Auditorium in Bengaluru on Friday.
His remarks may reignite discussions surrounding the caste census in Karnataka. Shivakumar emphasized, “We are moving forward on the principles of equal life and share for all. Discussions about equality date back to British rule, which is why a caste census was conducted around 1931. Our leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi are also committed to conducting a caste census.”
He stated that all sections of society should have equal opportunities. Today, the Constitution grants rights to every community. Karnataka has a dedicated department for backward classes, and funds will be allocated for its operations. The government is attentive to the voices of backward classes, with two-thirds of the state cabinet comprising ministers from backward classes, Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and minority communities.
Shivakumar noted, “Reservation for OBCs was established during the reign of Mysore’s ruler Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar. This is part of Karnataka’s history. The backward class represents nearly 52 percent of the population in the country. You have built this nation through your skills, knowledge, and hard work. You are the true creators of this country. We are fully aware of your demands.”
He mentioned that reservations are also being provided in local bodies. During the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments, he had asked former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi why these amendments were necessary. Rajiv Gandhi responded that leadership should be nurtured from the panchayat to the parliament.
Shivakumar added, “Rajiv Gandhi believed that a true leader is one who prepares other leaders. His vision was for people from all sections of society to take on leadership roles. A caste census is essential in this country, and the central government has also initiated a door-to-door census process. Through the caste census, social inequalities can be reduced.”
He praised the National OBC Federation, led by Babanrao, for working towards the rights of backward classes without any political motives. The state government is committed to fulfilling the aspirations of the people. The Congress party’s ideology, rooted in the principles of Basavanna, is dedicated to the national interest.
Shivakumar appealed to the public, stating that the message should reach across the country that Karnataka has a government that listens to the voices of backward classes. If you wish to safeguard your interests at the national level, you must stand with our party. The Congress, which played a pivotal role in India’s independence, is capable of uniting all sections of society. When Sonia Gandhi had the opportunity to become Prime Minister, she chose to appoint economist Manmohan Singh for the nation’s benefit.”
He highlighted that during Manmohan Singh’s tenure, significant reforms such as education reform, the Food Security Act, and employment guarantee schemes were implemented. Necessary changes to protect the interests of all classes have been made by Congress governments. He also urged support for the demands of the OBC Federation and encouraged backing for the Congress party.
Leave a Comment