Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], July 24 (ANI): Leader of the Opposition in the Karnataka Assembly, R Ashok, on Thursday strongly criticized Chief Minister Siddaramaiah over the recently conducted caste sub-reservation survey, alleging that the exercise was politically motivated and designed to sow caste-based divisions.
“Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has conducted a caste census to create a divide between castes. If a new census is being conducted now, it implies the previous one was fake,” Ashok said, questioning the credibility and intent behind the survey.
He further claimed that the sub-reservation survey, completed in just 15 days, was a superficial effort undertaken as a mere formality, in contrast to the more comprehensive caste census conducted a decade ago. “CM Siddaramaiah’s government conducted the caste sub-reservation survey as a mere formality. The previous caste census was conducted ten years ago, but the recent sub-reservation survey was completed in just 15 days. Surveys conducted by the central government are widely accepted, whereas those conducted by the state government hold no value,” Ashok remarked while speaking to reporters.
Accusing the Chief Minister of exploiting caste-based issues for political benefit, Ashok said, “If the Congress government plans to conduct another caste census, it means the previous one was fraudulent, which has caused embarrassment to the government.”
He also suggested that the state should align with the central government’s efforts in conducting national censuses and contribute constructively rather than disrupting proceedings. “The state government should guide everyone, but leaders from its own party disrupt Parliament over every issue. State matters should be discussed in Parliament, and all MPs from his party would raise concerns regarding the state’s land and water issues,” he added.
Ashok welcomed the verdict in the DJ Halli and KG Halli riot case, recalling the severity of the incident in which an MLA’s house was set on fire. “Many involved, including those associated with PFI and supporters of Pakistan, should face stringent punishment,” he asserted.
He also took a swipe at the current government over unmet demands of transport employees, pointing out that he had resolved similar concerns during his tenure as Transport Minister. He pledged continued support for transport workers and urged the government to address their grievances.
Condemning the recent killing of BJP workers in Andhra Pradesh, Ashok called on the state government to ensure protection for BJP members.
Additionally, he accused the Congress-led state government of corruption related to the purchase of smart meters and demanded a full investigation. “Congress is engaging in looting through the purchase of smart meters. We will fight to ensure justice for the people,” he concluded.
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