Caste survey report back on cabinet agenda amid divisions, Major policy decisions awaited

The long-pending and politically sensitive Social and Educational Caste Census Report (popularly referred to as the caste survey report) is once again set to be discussed in the Karnataka cabinet on Thursday, after being deferred multiple times.

Originally conducted in 2015, the report was accepted by the government only in 2024, but has since faced repeated delays in cabinet discussions due to lack of consensus among ministers. In previous meetings, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah asked all ministers to submit their written opinions. However, so far, only 11 ministers have responded, while more than 20 are yet to provide input.

Some ministers argue that rejecting a report commissioned by the state itself at a cost of ₹192 crore would send the wrong message. Their suggestion: accept the report and forward it to the Centre, especially since the Union Government has promised to conduct its own caste census. However, opposition from certain communities — and from ministers representing them — has led to continued deadlock and delays.

Legal, Public Discussions Likely

Sources suggest that the cabinet may also deliberate on ongoing court cases related to the survey in the High Court and Supreme Court. Also, on reservation classification decisions made during former CM Basavaraj Bommai’s tenure.

A one-month window may be announced to display data at village and city levels across Karnataka, inviting suggestions and objections. Following this process, the government could present a final decision in the legislative session after incorporating public feedback.

2011 KPSC Scam Resurfaces

In a significant legal development, the government is also expected to reopen the 2011 KPSC recruitment scam, involving irregularities in the appointment of 362 gazetted probationers. Approval may be granted to prosecute the then KPSC Chairman and eight members, all accused of malpractice.

CID investigations had earlier led to arrests, and the matter was deferred in a December 2024 cabinet meeting. The state may now decide to seek Presidential approval for prosecution.

Ramanagara May Be Renamed ‘Bengaluru South District’

The cabinet is also likely to approve renaming Ramnagara district as “Bengaluru South District” — a move that could reshape regional identity and administrative focus.

Other urban development proposals under consideration are upgrading Malur (Kolar) and Maddur (Mandya) municipal councils to city municipal councils.

Major Financial and Infrastructure Decisions Expected

The Karnataka government may provide guarantees for Rs 1,600 crore in refinancing through NABARD for the Karnataka State Cooperative Agriculture and Rural Development Bank.

The cabinet may drop a Lokayukta-recommended departmental inquiry against retired IAS officers Bharat Lal Meena and P.B. Ramamurthy.

Also, approval may be granted for Rs 1,778 crore for the Hebbal (Esteem Mall)–Silk Board Junction North-South Corridor project in Bengaluru and Rs 40,425 crore administrative approval for Phase 2 of the Namma Metro project.

As the cabinet meets on Thursday, the spotlight will remain on whether it can reach consensus on the contentious caste census report — and whether Karnataka is ready to take the next step on a long-delayed issue that has deep political and social implications.