Belagavi
Former MLC Mahantesh Kavatagimath advised that during the upcoming social and educational survey by the state Backward Classes Commission, members of the Veerashaiva Lingayat community should write “Hindu” in the religion column and “Veerashaiva Lingayat” in the caste column, along with their sub-caste details.
Speaking at a press conference on Monday, Kavatagimath said that at a recent Davanagere meeting, the All India Veerashaiva Mahasabha affirmed that Veerashaiva and Lingayat are synonymous. Similarly, a unity conference in Hubballi resolved that the choice of what to enter in the religion column should remain at the discretion of the community.
“Based on legal expert opinions and these resolutions, Veerashaiva Lingayats should mark Hindu as religion and Veerashaiva Lingayat as caste with sub-caste details. This ensures Hindu sub-castes availing reservation benefits under Veerashaiva-Lingayat are not deprived,” he added. He emphasized that Veerashaiva Lingayat is a principal caste in the state, part of Hinduism, and includes various professional castes.
BJP spokesperson MB Zirali demanded clarification from the Backward Classes Commission on why the term Christian was included alongside Hindu sub-castes in the ongoing survey. He called for the release of the Kantaraj Commission report, disclosure of data, and correction of any shortcomings.
MLA Sasikala Jolle, former MP Mangala Angadi, former MLAs Dr Vishwanath Patil, Mahesh Kumathalli, Mahantesh Doddagoudara, Sanjay Patil, BJP Belagavi Rural District President Subhash Patil, and Metropolitan Unit President Geeta Sutara attended the conference.