Karnataka Deputy CM advises Vokkaligara Sangha to postpone meet on caste census

Bengaluru: Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar advised leaders of the Vokkaligara Sangha on Sunday to postpone the meeting on caste census to avoid creating “unnecessary confusion.”

Shivakumar, the leading Vokkaliga leader in the Congress, met Rajya Vokkaligara Sangha president Kenchappa Gowda and other office-bearers at his residence in Sadashivanagar.

Speaking to reporters later, he said: “They had planned to conduct a meeting today on caste census. I won’t participate in it and have advised them to postpone the meeting as it creates unnecessary confusion. I have told them that I will speak to Adichunchanagiri Mutt seer and we will ensure that no injustice happens to anyone.”

After a meeting on January 10, the Sangha had decided to hold a meeting on January 12 comprising top Vokkaliga seers, Vokkaliga politicians of all parties and the 35 executive committee members to oppose the “unscientific” caste census report.

The Sangha had also decided to team up with the All India Veerashaiva Mahasabha representing Lingayats to oppose the contentious caste census.

Stating that the officer-bearers of the newly formed committee had met him after a compromise amongst themselves, Shivakumar warned them against further infighting. “If they fight again, I have warned them that I will appoint an administrative officer.”