Karnataka High Court to Hear Pleas Against State’s ‘Caste Census’ Order

The Karnataka High Court will hear pleas challenging the state’s August 13 Government Order approving a survey of citizens’ social and educational status by the Backwards Classes Commission.

Petitioners argue that the Aadhaar-linked, geo-tagged data collection violates the Aadhaar Act, is a “caste census” contrary to Article 342A, and encroaches on the Centre’s exclusive power to conduct a census.

They cited Indra Sawhney v. Union of India while claiming the exercise is politically motivated.

The state, represented by Senior Advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, defended the survey as essential for welfare schemes. The case is listed for an interim hearing before Dussehra.