Kammavari Sangham Rejects Caste Census 2025 Figures, Demands Reclassification and Accurate Enumeration

Bengaluru, April 24, 2025 — The Kammavari Sangham of Karnataka has raised serious concerns over the recently released Caste Census Report 2025, alleging significant discrepancies in the enumeration of the Kamma and Kammavari communities. At a press conference held at the Press Club of Bengaluru today, the Sangham’s leadership categorically rejected the census findings and called upon the state government to initiate a comprehensive review of the data.

Addressing the media, Sri Rajagopala Naidu, President of the Kammavari Sangham, along with committee members and district-level representatives, stated that the figures published in the report were grossly understated. According to the census, the community populations are listed as follows:

Kamma: 1,11,739

Kamma Naidu: 18,361

Kammavari: 1,745

Naidus: 1,50,601


The Sangham, however, contends that the actual population of the Kamma and Kammavari communities exceeds 20 lakh, spread across more than ten districts in Karnataka.

“The figures presented in the census are not only erroneous but have serious implications for the socio-political standing of our community,” said Sri Rajagopala Naidu. “Such misrepresentation could result in inadequate political representation, reduced access to welfare schemes, and diminished opportunities in education and employment.”

The community is currently classified under Category 3 of the state’s reservation system, as per Government Order No. SWD 255 BCA 2000 dated March 30, 2002, which allots 4% reservation to 35 castes, including the Kamma community. The Sangham argues that within this category, several castes are economically and educationally better placed, making it difficult for the Kammavari community to compete on equal terms.

“Despite repeated appeals over the years, our community continues to face systemic challenges in securing government jobs and educational opportunities,” said a Sangham spokesperson. “We strongly urge the government to consider reclassifying the Kammavari community under Category 1B to ensure equitable access to affirmative action benefits.”

Calling the caste census “unscientific and flawed,” the Sangham has demanded that the Karnataka government undertake a transparent review of the enumeration process and rectify the discrepancies to ensure accurate representation of the community in official records.

The press conference concluded with a collective appeal to the state authorities for justice, proper classification, and inclusion. Senior community leaders, elders, and members of the media were present at the event, which also marked the beginning of a broader campaign for recognition and equitable treatment.

The statement was officially released by Sri Rajagopala Naidu, President of the Kammavari Sangham, on behalf of the community leadership.