Technical issues hamper caste survey on first day, camps planned in areas with poor internet

BENGALURU: The socio-economic and educational survey, or caste survey, being undertaken by the state government encountered hiccups on the first day on Monday. Though the target is to cover 20 lakh people in a day, the enumerators could survey on ly 10,642 people of 2,765 families on the first day.

Technical issues were faced in several areas with poor internet connectivity resulting in the app used for the survey not functioning properly. To address this, camps are being planned at schools and anganwadis in areas without internet connectivity.

Meanwhile, the Karnataka High Court, which is hearing public interest petitions from various groups challenging the caste survey, on Tuesday put off further hearing to Wednesday. A bench of the high court, headed by Chief Justice Vibhu Bhakru is hearing petitions filed by the Vokkaligara Sangha, Akhila Karnataka Brahmanara Mahasabha and Veerashaiva-Lingayat community against the caste survey.

Due to the Navarathri and Vijayadashami festivals, there is a possibility of extending the census period by a week. An official announcement from the Backward Classes Commission is expected in this regard soon. If the census in Bengaluru starts late, it might conclude simultaneously with the rest of the state.

The census deadline of October 7 might be extended, and a new date could be announced. The extension would account for the festival holidays and school/college breaks.