In a clutch of petitions questioning the validity of Karnataka’s ongoing caste survey, formally called the Socio-Economic and Educational Survey, the Karnataka High Court on Tuesday heard extensive arguments. They further flagged possible discrepancies in the caste survey, alleging that the state itself has cited varying figures for the number of castes at different times. At this stage, the court intervened and questioned what real difference existed between a caste survey and a caste census, noting that both would ultimately yield the same result. Most importantly, Singhvi argued that the writ petitions essentially seek a mandamus compelling the court to act arbitrarily. Referring to the 105th Constitutional Amendment, Singhvi argued that the power it conferred must necessarily encompass the authority to conduct the present survey.