Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Apr 16: Amid rising political heat and community backlash over the caste census report in Karnataka, state health minister Dinesh Gundu Rao has thrown his full support behind the controversial survey, calling for a rational and informed discussion rather than emotional reactions.

Speaking to the media on Wednesday, Minister Rao expressed confidence in the report prepared by the State Commission for Backward Classes under the leadership of Jayaprakash Hegde. “The survey is grounded in social, economic, and educational data. If we are sincere in our commitment to social justice and equal opportunities, we must study and assess the report scientifically,” he said.

Rao, who belongs to the Brahmin community, stressed that the report contains “logical and reasoned elements” and should not be dismissed hastily. “I fully endorse the survey. It will be placed before the Cabinet, and once it receives approval, we can begin an open discussion about its findings and how best to implement it. Constructive dialogue must replace misinformation,” he added.

Responding to criticism from various quarters, Rao noted, “Some individuals are trying to mislead the public without even reading the report. I urge people not to jump to conclusions. Let us first understand the content, then engage in a meaningful debate.”

The caste census, submitted by the Backward Classes Commission to the Congress-led Karnataka government, has become a flashpoint, with sources revealing that it places the Muslim population at 18.08% and recommends 8% reservation for the community. These numbers have sparked concerns among several communities, including the Vokkaligas and Lingayats, who have announced their intention to oppose the report.

On Tuesday night, deputy chief minister D K Shivakumar convened a high-level meeting at his official Kumara Park residence with ministers, MLAs, Rajya Sabha members, and Vokkaliga community leaders to discuss the fallout of the report. Addressing the media later, Shivakumar dismissed media claims that Muslims were shown as the largest population group in the census, branding such reports as false and misleading.