New Delhi, Jun 10 (UNI) In the backdrop of cabinet reshuffle speculation and public scrutiny over the recent RCB felicitation tragedy in Bengaluru, the Congress on Tuesday presented a united front, reaffirming its support for caste survey and lashing out at the Central government for its alleged indifference towards Karnataka.
Addressing a press conference after a key review meeting in the national capital, Congress General Secretary (Organisation) KC Venugopal said the party leadership held detailed discussions with Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) President DK Shivakumar.
Venugopal announced that the party had arrived at a consensus regarding the caste survey ahead of the June 12 special Cabinet session in Karnataka. "The Congress party believes that the caste survey conducted by the Karnataka government should be accepted in principle. However, given that the enumeration was carried out a decade ago, concerns have emerged over the data's current relevance," he said.
"In light of this, the party has suggested to the Chief Minister that a fresh enumeration be carried out within a fixed timeframe, 60, 70, or 80 days, based on administrative feasibility. The CM will take a final call," he added.
The statement comes amidst reports of internal differences within the Karnataka Congress and speculation of a Cabinet reshuffle. However, Venugopal dismissed such speculation, signalling continuity and cohesion in the government.
"There is no confusion. The party speaks in one voice. All leaders are working in coordination," he asserted.
The meeting also addressed the fallout of the recent stampede-like situation at the RCB victory celebration event in Bengaluru, which triggered public outrage.
"The Chief Minister and the PCC President briefed the leadership on the tragedy. We are deeply concerned about every human life. A judicial inquiry has already been ordered. The Congress will not interfere in its process," Venugopal said, adding that the government was expected to act with full sensitivity and accountability.
Turning his focus to the Centre, Venugopal launched a scathing attack on the Modi-led government for what he termed as financial neglect of Karnataka. "The central plan allocation to Karnataka is totally unacceptable. The Modi government is treating the state unfairly and pushing it to the margins. This is a grave injustice to the people of Karnataka," he said.
The high-level meeting was seen as an attempt to both consolidate the party's strategy in Karnataka and project internal unity amid turbulence. The Congress leadership appeared keen to recast the political narrative from controversy and internal debate to issues of social justice and Centre-state equity. UNI BDN SSP