"Previous census was not accurate...": Karnataka Dy CM DK Shivakumar on approving caste survey

Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], October 5 (ANI): Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Sunday said that the earlier caste census was not accurate, which is why the state government has approved a new survey.
He added that while objections may arise, the caste census must be conducted as also directed by the court.
Speaking to the reporters, DK Shivakumar said, "Anyone may express objections to the caste census. However, this survey needs to be conducted. Even the court has said so... There is no meaning in opposing the survey."
"The previous census was not accurate, which is why I have allowed a new one... Regarding the extension of the survey, I am unable to comment on that. I have no connection with that decision. It's up to the department and the commission to decide," Shivakumar said.

Earlier, on October 3, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah reaffirmed his government's commitment to completing the ongoing caste census and stated that the survey work would likely be completed by October 7.
"A survey of 3 crore people from about 80 lakh houses has already been completed in the state and it is hoped that the survey work will be completed by October 7. A survey of 1.80 crore families' needs to be conducted," he said while speaking to the media.
He clarified that the exercise is not meant to divide society but to gather vital socio-economic data. "An economic, social and educational survey is being conducted in Karnataka, to obtain information about the condition of the people. Castes like Brahmin, Christian, etc. were mentioned in the Kantharaj report. If people voluntarily enter their caste, the government will not be responsible for it," he said.
"But the Commission has removed these castes from the list. Therefore, the Commission will get information about the caste that people voluntarily declare. There is no question of dividing caste in this. The BJP is misleading people for political purposes," the Chief Minister asserted. (ANI)