Why Did Narayana Murthy and Sudha Murty Skip Karnataka’s Caste Survey?
Have you ever wondered what happens when big names like Infosys founder Narayana Murthy and his wife Sudha Murty decide to skip a government survey? Well, that’s exactly what unfolded recently in Bengaluru. The couple chose not to join the ongoing Karnataka caste survey. And this move has sparked talks across the state. In fact, it highlights key issues in the caste census debate. Moreover, their choice comes at a time when the survey aims to help backward communities. But let’s dive deeper. First, understand their reasons. They said they don’t belong to any backward group. Therefore, the survey doesn’t apply to them. Additionally, they believe it serves no purpose for the government in their case. So, this decision feels personal yet bold.
Now, picture this. Enumerators show up at their home. However, the Murthys politely decline. Sudha Murty even writes a note on the form. She signs it too. Plus, they submit a self-declaration letter. As a result, officials respect their choice. After all, the survey is voluntary. And Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar confirms this. He states, “We don’t force anyone.” Consequently, no pressure follows.
But why does this matter? Because the Karnataka caste survey seeks socio-economic data. It focuses on education and backward classes. Yet, not everyone sees it the same way. For instance, former Infosys CEO Mohandas Pai slams it. He argues ministers care more about caste than growth. Moreover, he points to jobs and tech as priorities. Instead, he says, the state borrows for freebies. Therefore, this opt-out fuels wider debates.
Narayana Murthy: The Infosys Pioneer Behind the Decision
Let’s talk about Narayana Murthy first. He founded Infosys in 1981. Back then, it started small. But now, it’s a global IT giant. Born in 1946 in Sidlaghatta, Karnataka, he grew up modest. He studied electrical engineering at Mysore University. Then, he earned a master’s from IIT Kanpur. After that, he worked at IIM Ahmedabad. However, his big dream led to Infosys. With six friends, he built it from scratch. Today, it employs thousands. Moreover, it boosts India’s economy.
Narayana Murthy values hard work. He often speaks on ethics and leadership. For example, he promotes 70-hour work weeks for youth. But he also gives back. Through philanthropy, he supports education. Additionally, his net worth hits billions. Yet, he lives simply. So, when he opts out of the Karnataka caste survey, people notice. It shows his stand on personal privacy. Furthermore, it questions if such surveys fit everyone.
His family shares similar views. Sudha Murty, his wife, stands by him. Together, they lead by example. But more on her next.
Sudha Murty: Author, Philanthropist, and Rajya Sabha MP
Now, shift to Sudha Murty. She wears many hats. First, she’s an engineer. She graduated from BVB College in Hubli. Then, she became TELCO’s first female engineer. But that’s just the start. Later, she turned author. Her books inspire kids and adults. For instance, “Wise and Otherwise” shares life lessons. Moreover, she chairs Infosys Foundation. Through it, she aids rural areas. She builds schools and hospitals. Additionally, she’s a Rajya Sabha MP since 2024.
Born in 1950 in Shiggaon, Karnataka, Sudha values simplicity. She often wears sarees and avoids luxury. However, her work impacts millions. In fact, she received the Padma Shri in 2006. Then, the Padma Bhushan in 2023. So, her opt-out from the caste survey aligns with her beliefs. She wrote, “This holds no relevance for us.” Therefore, it won’t help the government. Plus, as forward community members, they skip it.
But their choice isn’t isolated. Others react strongly too.
What Is the Karnataka Caste Survey All About?
So, what exactly is this Karnataka caste survey? It’s officially the Social and Educational Survey. The Karnataka Backward Classes Commission runs it. Started on September 22, 2025, it ends October 7. But why now? Because the Congress government wants fresh data. The last one happened in 2015. However, leaders set it aside. Now, this redo costs about 420 crore rupees. Moreover, it covers over 1.35 crore households.
The purpose seems clear. It maps castes, education, and economy. As a result, it identifies backward classes. Then, the government can offer benefits. For example, reservations in jobs and schools. Additionally, it helps plan welfare schemes. But here’s the catch. It asks 60 questions. These probe income, land, and caste details. Consequently, some find it intrusive.
Furthermore, the survey isn’t new. History traces back to 2014. Siddaramaiah ordered it then. But controversies delayed acceptance. In 2025, it’s back. However, Christian sub-castes got removed recently. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced that. So, it focuses on other groups.
History and Controversies of Karnataka Caste Census
Let’s trace the history. In 2014, during Siddaramaiah’s first term, the survey began. It cost 160 crore back then. Enumerators visited homes statewide. But the report stirred debates. Some claimed leaks showed Lingayats as largest. Others said Vokkaligas dominate. However, the government never released it fully. Instead, they formed a new commission.
Fast forward to 2023. Congress wins again. They promise to accept the old report. But in 2025, they launch a fresh one. Why? Because old data feels outdated. Moreover, politics plays a role. BJP calls it divisive. They urge boycotts. As a result, petitions hit courts.
Controversies pile up. First, privacy concerns. People fear data misuse. Second, the 60-question list irritates. It asks about toilets, vehicles, and more. In Bengaluru, residents complain it’s too long. Teachers, who conduct it, protest workload. Additionally, tech glitches slow progress.
But supporters argue it’s vital. It ensures fair benefits. For backward classes, it means better opportunities. However, critics like Mohandas Pai disagree. He says focus on growth instead. “Ministers bother about caste, not jobs,” he tweets. Moreover, he warns of backward steps.
Reactions to Murthys’ Opt-Out from Leaders and Public
Reactions pour in quickly. DK Shivakumar responds calmly. As Deputy CM, he says it’s voluntary. “No force,” he adds. Therefore, the government respects choices.
But Mohandas Pai goes harder. The ex-Infosys CFO blasts the survey. He compares benefits to high-paying jobs. “This is small,” he says. Moreover, he accuses ministers of appeasement. Instead, push tech and development, he urges.
Public views mix. On X (formerly Twitter), posts flood. For example, Mint shares the news with details. NDTV runs videos. Oneindia notes it’s a personal stance. However, some users question if everyone can opt out. “Like demonetisation?” one asks.
Media covers widely. Times of India reports their note: “Not part of backward community.” NDTV says Sudha Murty signs the form. Additionally, Deccan Chronicle highlights Bengaluru angle.
But the Karnataka High Court weighs in too.
Karnataka High Court’s Role in Caste Survey
The court steps up. In an interim order, it clarifies rules. First, the survey isn’t mandatory. Surveyors can’t insist. Moreover, data stays confidential. Only the Commission accesses it.
The court notes its purpose: Benefits for backward classes. However, it doesn’t violate rights. As a result, people can opt out freely. This order eases tensions. For instance, it stops forced participation.
Petitions challenged it earlier. Some sought halts. But the court allows continuation with safeguards.
Implications for Karnataka Politics and Society
So, what does this mean? First, it spotlights voluntary nature. More might opt out. However, that could skew data. Backward classes need accurate info for aid.
Politically, it pressures Congress. BJP uses it for attacks. “Divisive politics,” they say. Moreover, within Congress, unease grows. Some fear backlash from dominant castes.
Socially, it questions caste roles. Murthys’ status lets them skip. But others might not. Therefore, debates on equality rise.
In Bengaluru, tech hub, it contrasts growth vs. caste focus. Pai’s words echo this. “Borrow for freebies, not development.”
Yet, the survey pushes forward. It aims to uplift. But success depends on participation.
Wrapping Up: A Bold Stand in Changing Times
In summary, Narayana Murthy and Sudha Murty’s opt-out grabs attention. It stems from irrelevance to them. However, it sparks broader talks. The Karnataka caste survey seeks justice. But controversies linger. Moreover, courts ensure fairness.
Their decision inspires thought. What if more follow? Time will tell. For now, watch Karnataka’s moves.
External Links:
- NDTV Article on Murthys’ Refusal
- Times Now on Reasons for Opt-Out
- Moneycontrol Coverage
- The News Minute on Survey Controversies
- The Hindu on Caste Survey Redux
