The Karnataka State Commission for Backward Classes has unveiled the findings of its comprehensive caste census, identifying a total of 1,351 castes and sub-castes across the state. The report, officially titled the Socio-economic and Educational Survey, was presented to the Karnataka Cabinet on April 11, 2025, and has sparked significant discussions about the socio-political landscape of the state.
The census, which surveyed a population of 5.98 crore, revealed that the Lingayat and Vokkaliga communities collectively account for 21.3% of Karnataka’s population. Lingayats, with a population of 66.35 lakh, represent 11% of the state’s demographic. Prominent sub-castes within the Lingayat community include Veerashaiva Lingayat, Nolamba Lingayat, and Panchamasali Lingayat. The Vokkaliga community, numbering 61.68 lakh, constitutes 10.3% of the population, with sub-castes such as Gowda and Reddy being significant.
The report also highlighted the diversity within other communities. Muslims, forming 12.9% of the population, were categorized into 99 sub-castes, while Christians were grouped into 58 sub-castes. The Kuruba community, from which Chief Minister Siddaramaiah hails, accounts for 7.3% of the population, with 43.72 lakh members.
The findings have reignited debates on caste-based reservations and socio-economic policies. The Panchamasali Lingayats, for instance, are advocating for inclusion under the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category, a movement led by MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal.
The census data is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping Karnataka’s political and social policies, particularly in areas such as education, employment, and resource allocation. The Cabinet is set to discuss the report in detail during a special meeting on April 17, 2025.
Stay tuned for further updates as the implications of this landmark census unfold.
