CHENNAI: Tamil Nadu govt on Thursday announced that it will conduct a “social justice” survey after the Union govt completes caste enumeration as part of the population census.In his maiden address from the govt’s prepared text, governor R V Arlekar said the govt’s core policy is that true social justice requires due representation for every community. “To fulfil this policy and promise, we will urge the Union govt to swiftly complete the caste enumeration in conjunction with the ongoing population census,” Arlekar said. The govt remains committed to protecting social justice and safeguarding Tamil Nadu’s 69% reservation.The move comes in the backdrop of a long-standing demand of PMK for a caste survey in Tamil Nadu similar to those in neighbouring states. An all-party meeting led by PMK president R Anbumani recently resolved that the state conduct such a survey, with support from the DMK and AIADMK. Anbumani submitted a memorandum to chief minister C Joseph Vijay seeking govt intervention.Arlekar said the govt would undertake structural reforms in the HR&CE department and eliminate alleged past administrative malpractices. Full audits of temple properties, land and endowment revenues, and the introduction of transparent computerized accounts would be taken up. The govt said it would ensure movable and immovable assets of temples are used only for sacred purposes, he said.
