Karnataka CM Criticizes Sudha Murty for Declining Participation in Caste Survey

Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Criticizes Sudha Murty for Rejecting Caste Survey

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has strongly criticized Rajya Sabha MP and philanthropist Sudha Murty for her decision to opt out of the state’s ongoing caste survey, calling her action “wrong” and a result of “disobedience due to misinformation.”

The controversy emerged after Murty, wife of Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy and mother-in-law of UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, reportedly refused to participate in Karnataka’s comprehensive caste census being conducted by the Congress-led state government.

“The survey is being conducted to gather accurate data about the socio-economic and educational status of different communities in our state. When prominent figures like Sudha Murty refuse to participate, it sends the wrong message to the public,” Siddaramaiah said at a press conference in Bengaluru yesterday.

The Chief Minister emphasized that the caste survey is a scientific exercise aimed at creating evidence-based policies for equitable distribution of resources and opportunities across all communities. “This is not a political move but a necessary step toward social justice and development planning,” he added.

Karnataka’s caste survey has been a contentious issue since its announcement, with opposition parties, particularly the BJP, questioning its methodology and timing. The survey aims to collect detailed information about caste demographics that could potentially influence reservation policies and welfare scheme allocations in the state.

Sources close to the government revealed that officials had approached Murty’s residence in Bengaluru for data collection, but were reportedly turned away. When asked about her reasons for declining to participate, Murty has remained unavailable for comment.

Political analysts view this incident as part of a larger tension between the state government and influential figures perceived to be aligned with opposition parties. Dr. Rajendra Chenni, a sociologist from Kuvempu University, noted, “The caste survey has become highly politicized. When public figures reject participating, it becomes more than a personal choice—it transforms into a political statement.”

The Karnataka government launched the caste survey earlier this year, the first such comprehensive exercise since 1931. The survey aims to collect data from approximately 1.5 crore households across the state.

“Every citizen’s participation is crucial for the survey’s success and accuracy,” said Social Welfare Minister H.C. Mahadevappa. “The data will help us formulate policies that address the real needs of marginalized communities who have been historically underrepresented.”

Opposition leader R. Ashoka criticized the government’s approach, stating, “The Congress government is trying to intimidate citizens who exercise their right to privacy. This public criticism of Sudha Murty, a respected figure, shows their desperation to push their agenda.”

The controversy has sparked debates about privacy concerns versus social responsibility. Legal experts point out that while the survey is not legally mandatory, public cooperation is essential for its effectiveness.

“The government needs to balance data collection with respect for citizens’ concerns,” said constitutional law expert Arvind Narrain. “Rather than public criticism, perhaps addressing misconceptions about the survey’s purpose would be more productive.”

The caste survey is expected to continue for several more months, with results likely to be published next year. The findings could potentially reshape Karnataka’s social welfare programs and reservation policies, making it one of the most consequential demographic exercises in recent state history.