Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah urged the Devang community to unite, promote women’s empowerment, and pursue inclusive development through education and organization
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“When marginalized communities come together in unity, caste divisions lose significance. Organize as one strong, undivided force” -Siddaramaiah, K’taka CM
Bengaluru
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, inaugurating the centenary celebrations of the Devang Sangh in Bengaluru, emphasized the need for inclusive development and community organization. Addressing the gathering, he urged all sub-castes within the Devang community to unite, stating that organizing without dividing by sub-caste strengthens the community and prevents social fragmentation. He highlighted that the Sangh’s century-long efforts in education, including providing student hostels and facilities, are significant milestones for the welfare of the Devang people.
The Chief Minister underscored the importance of women’s empowerment, noting that marginalized groups historically lacked access to literacy and education. He assured government support for the construction of women’s hostels and encouraged the community to overcome gender disparities. Siddaramaiah stressed that the Devang community, with a rich history but socially and economically backward, must organize itself to harness its collective strength. Education, organization, and struggle are key to achieving social equality, he added, referencing Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s vision that freedom—social, economic, educational, and political—is essential for an equitable society.
He also cited past government initiatives for artisans, recalling the 2004–05 reduction in electricity tariffs from ₹4.20 per unit to ₹1.20, benefiting 80% of the community, along with current measures including subsidized electricity, zero-interest loans up to ₹5 lakh, and schemes honoring artisans and poets. The CM affirmed the government’s commitment to continuing land allotments and other welfare measures for backward classes. He urged community members to pursue their rights through education, unity, and active participation in social development, fostering tolerance and cooperation across all castes and religions.
