Murthy Couple’s Refusal to Join Caste Survey Draws Sharp Response from Karnataka CM

A fresh controversy has erupted in Karnataka after philanthropist and Rajya Sabha MP Sudha Murty and her husband, Infosys founder Narayana Murthy, declined to participate in the state’s ongoing social and educational survey being conducted by the Karnataka Backward Classes Commission.

The couple’s decision came after the High Court clarified that participation in the survey is voluntary, prompting Sudha Murty to opt out. Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar also stated that the government would not force anyone to take part.

However, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed disappointment, asserting that the survey was not limited to backward classes but was a comprehensive enumeration of the entire population.

CM’s Strong Reaction

Reacting sharply, Siddaramaiah said, “Should Infosys mean Brihaspati (all-knowing)? We have said over 20 times that this is not a backward classes survey but a population survey. If they have not understood that, what can I do? Just because they are Infosys, are they all-knowing?”

He reiterated that the survey is not restricted to backward classes, adding that even the Central Government is conducting a similar caste-based enumeration. “If they are refusing this, what will they say to the Centre?” the Chief Minister questioned.

What Happened at the Murthy Residence

According to reports, when enumerators visited Sudha Murty’s residence, the couple informed them that they did not wish to participate, clarifying that they do not belong to the backward class community. Sudha Murty is said to have written and signed a statement to that effect on the survey form.

CM Defends Survey, Cites Welfare Schemes

Siddaramaiah defended the intent behind the survey, pointing out that it is meant to understand the state’s social and economic composition more accurately. He cited various welfare programs such as ‘Shakti’, which offers free bus rides for women, and ‘Gruha Lakshmi’, which provides ₹2,000 monthly assistance to women heads of economically weaker households.

“Despite repeated clarifications from ministers, there are still misconceptions about this survey,” he said, emphasizing that it aims to ensure social justice and equitable policy-making.

Reactions Beyond the Murthy Couple

Former Infosys CEO Mohandas Pai also criticized the caste survey, calling it a distraction from governance priorities. “Instead of focusing on growth and high-paying jobs, ministers are more concerned about caste surveys and appeasement,” Pai remarked.

The Debate Continues

The controversy has reignited the ongoing debate over caste-based enumeration in Karnataka. While the state government insists it is a data-driven social welfare initiative, critics argue that it risks deepening social divisions.

As the survey continues across Karnataka, the Murthy couple’s refusal has sparked a larger discussion about privilege, participation, and public responsibility in shaping social policy.

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