Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (JD)

Udupi, May 1: Senior Congress leader and former chairman of the Backward Classes Commission, Jayaprakash Hegde, has welcomed the Centre’s decision to undertake a caste-based census, stating that it aligns with a longstanding demand by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi.

Speaking to the media in Udupi, Hegde emphasised that while Karnataka had already conducted a comprehensive socio-economic and educational survey, mere caste enumeration is insufficient to determine reservation benefits.

“Only a caste census won’t help in providing reservations. A better understanding of the social and economic conditions of each community is essential to make informed decisions,” Hegde noted. “If we have that data, it becomes easier to determine who falls under which category.”

He expressed satisfaction with the union cabinet’s decision and said it is now incumbent upon the BJP-led state government to accept it once the high command gives its nod.

“If the union cabinet has approved this, the BJP in Karnataka must also accept it. You can’t reject something without providing scientific evidence or reasons,” he said.

Referring to the caste census report prepared under his leadership, Hegde pointed out that while BJP leaders like Kota Srinivas Poojary had promised to table the report in the Assembly, the government has so far failed to officially accept it.

“Had they accepted our report back then, we would have submitted it to the government immediately. We prepared our report based on the data collected by Kantaraju’s team,” he explained.

Hegde said the report was presented to the state Cabinet and is awaiting discussion and a final decision.

Highlighting the delay in national census activities, he observed:

“The last national census was in 2011. Now, the next one is happening in 2025 over a decade later. In this period, many elections have been held. The report must be released soon. That is our opinion.”

He clarified that the responsibility of drafting and submitting the report has been fulfilled by the commission, and now the onus is on the government to take further action.

“If the cabinet approves and accepts the report, only then can the government proceed with the next steps.”

Hegde also urged that other states should emulate Karnataka's model and conduct similar socio-economic and caste-based surveys.

“The real condition of all castes, including smaller and marginalized ones, must be made public. Only then can we build an equitable society. The report's implementation is essential for that.”

He added that if there are differences between the Centre’s caste census and Karnataka’s data, updates can be made accordingly.

“If our report is accepted, no community will be left out,” he affirmed.

Speaking about the recent Pahalgam attack Jayaprakash Hegde said “All opposition parties have expressed support to the central government in this hour of crisis,” Hegde said. “The pain caused by the Pahalgam incident is not limited to the affected families it is a sorrow shared by the entire country.”

Hegde emphasised that criticising the statements of the victims' families is inappropriate, adding that no one should be in a position to dictate a ‘script’ about what happened. “The families have described the incident firsthand. Nobody has the right to question or criticize their version.”

Calling for enhanced national security measures, Hegde stated, “The central government must focus on ensuring tight security in the region. Just because tourists are absent doesn't mean security is unnecessary in such a sensitive border area.”

He also pointed out the government’s responsibility to maintain security along the Pakistan border, regardless of civilian movement. “Whether tourists visit or not, it is the government's duty to ensure border safety.”

Referring to recent steps taken by the government, he said, “The decision to identify and deport infiltrators from Pakistan has already been made. This will have to be implemented across all states.”

On the issue of potential military action, Hegde commented, “If necessary, war may be inevitable. However, if the situation can be tackled without war, that should be attempted first.”

He concluded by stating, “Whether war is needed or not is a decision to be taken solely by the central government. This is not just the view of chief ministers even spiritual leaders like Pejawar Swamiji have echoed the same.”