Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has addressed the recent decision by Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy and his wife, Rajya Sabha MP Sudha Murthy, to opt out of the state’s ongoing social and educational survey. The Chief Minister emphasized that the survey is not exclusively for backward classes, countering the Murthys’ apparent stance.
Speaking to reporters in Mysuru on October 17, Siddaramaiah clarified that the survey’s scope extends beyond just backward communities – a point the government had previously highlighted. He added, rather pointedly, that ‘being from Infosys does not mean that they are all-knowing,’ suggesting a misunderstanding on the part of the prominent couple.
He stressed that the comprehensive survey aims to gather data from all segments of society. Furthermore, he noted that various welfare initiatives and guarantee schemes benefit individuals from all economic backgrounds, not just the less privileged.
As an example, he cited the ‘Shakti’ scheme, which provides benefits to women across all classes, including those from backward communities and the upper class.
The Chief Minister reiterated that the survey encompasses approximately 7 crore residents of Karnataka and should not be mistakenly perceived as an exercise solely focused on backward classes.
He also questioned whether the Murthys would adopt a similar stance if the Central Government were to conduct a nationwide caste census in the future.
Siddaramaiah concluded that the couple’s reluctance to provide information likely stems from a significant misunderstanding regarding the survey’s true purpose.
The core objective of the survey, he explained, is to comprehensively assess the economic, educational, and social conditions of Karnataka’s entire 7-crore population.
Karnataka’s Investment Landscape and Restrictions on RSS Activities in Public Spaces
Addressing a tweet from an Andhra Pradesh Minister about foreign investments in their state, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah affirmed Karnataka’s strong appeal to investors. He stated that companies choose locations based on suitability, noting that Karnataka has already attracted substantial investment, including the largest iPhone manufacturing facility. He proudly highlighted Karnataka’s top ranking in India for attracting investments during the recent Global Investors Meet.
Regarding allegations from the Contractors’ Association claiming that commission payments persist under the current Congress government, Siddaramaiah dismissed these as politically motivated attempts to discredit his administration. He challenged those making such claims to pursue legal action in court.
Concerning the ban on Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) activities in public and government-owned spaces without prior permission, the Chief Minister clarified that this policy applies universally to all organizations, not exclusively to the RSS. He further pointed out that the original order was initiated in 2013, during the BJP’s tenure when Jagadish Shettar served as Chief Minister.
Addressing claims by BJP leaders predicting a ‘November revolution’ and a change in the state’s Chief Minister, Siddaramaiah advised the media to disregard such statements. He assured that there would be ‘neither a revolution nor any change,’ dismissing the speculation.