DMK is not against caste survey: Stalin

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin affirmed the DMK’s stance in support of conducting a caste survey, aligning with the demands put forth by the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) to expedite the process. During a session in the assembly, Chief Minister Stalin emphasized the government’s responsiveness to calls for surveys, both within the legislative chamber and through budgetary allocations. Addressing concerns raised by PMK leaders, including S Ramadoss, Anbumani Ramadoss, G K Mani, and TVK leader T Velmurugan, Chief Minister Stalin reiterated the administration’s willingness to address the issue. He clarified that the government harbors no opposition to conducting a caste survey, underscoring its commitment to fostering transparency and inclusivity in governance. However, despite the government’s reassurances, PMK MLAs walked out of the assembly after their attempts to prioritize the caste survey were thwarted. Speaker M Appavu condemned the disruption, highlighting the state’s formal request to the Union government to initiate the caste census in tandem with the decadal census. He reiterated that only the Union government possesses the authority to undertake a statutory census, and efforts have been made through correspondence between the Chief Minister and relevant Union ministries to expedite the process.