Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced on Wednesday that the Congress OBC Advisory Council has resolved to launch a nationwide campaign advocating for a comprehensive caste census, modeled after Telangana’s state caste survey. Speaking at a meeting in Bengaluru, Siddaramaiah outlined the “Bengaluru Declaration,” emphasizing that the census must cover social, economic, educational, employment, and political aspects of individuals and castes.

The council also passed resolutions to break the 50% reservation cap to ensure adequate representation for Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in education, employment, politics, and other sectors, and to mandate OBC reservations in private educational institutions under Article 15(4) of the Indian Constitution.

Siddaramaiah praised Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, dubbing him “Nyaya Yoddha” (Warrior for Justice), for championing social justice for marginalized communities. He credited Gandhi’s persistent efforts for pressuring the central government to agree to a caste census, calling it a historic milestone. “Rahul Ji’s resolve forced the Manuvadi Modi government to surrender to this constitutional demand,” Siddaramaiah said, expressing gratitude on behalf of India’s backward classes.

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The Chief Minister described the Centre’s decision as a small but significant step toward achieving the constitutional goal of social justice. He added that under Rahul Gandhi’s leadership, the Congress aims to foster an egalitarian society, ensuring social empowerment for all. The campaign is set to amplify demands for equitable representation and opportunities for OBCs across the country.

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