Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Nov 1: The month-long Social and Educational Survey-2025, conducted by the Karnataka State Commission for Backward Classes, has covered 6.13 crore of the state’s estimated 6.85 crore population. The physical enumeration concluded on October 31, with the online submission window open until November 10.

Commission chairman Madhusudan Naik said the final figure may reach around 6.2 crore once the online entries are included. The survey, which began on October 22 across the state and earlier on October 4 in Bengaluru, had to be extended twice due to low participation in the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) region. Several residents reportedly refused to participate, stating they had already shared their details in their native districts.

The commission has been directed to analyse the data and submit its recommendations by December. It has the authority to reclassify communities among the categories of backward, more backward, and most backward based on socio-economic indicators — a move that many smaller and nomadic communities await keenly.

The exercise follows the shelved 2015 caste survey, which faced backlash from dominant communities questioning its accuracy. This year’s survey, conducted under judicial oversight, ensured data confidentiality and voluntary participation, though enumerators faced resistance and occasional hostility in certain areas.

Responses varied widely across communities — while several backward and microscopic groups participated actively, reluctance was noted among sections of the Brahmin community after some leaders discouraged participation. Meanwhile, major caste organisations among Vokkaligas and Veerashaiva-Lingayats reportedly mobilized their members to take part, aiming for comprehensive representation.

With data collection nearing completion, the commission’s findings are expected to play a crucial role in shaping Karnataka’s future social and educational policies.