Intro
Hadapada demanded the minister publicly admit his mistake and apologize in the Assembly, showing leaders take responsibility for words
GADAG
Members of the Savita community in Gadag district have stepped up protests after Labor Minister Santosh Lad allegedly used offensive words referring to their caste. Community leaders say the remark has deeply hurt their dignity and cannot be ignored.
Krishna H. Hadapada, District President of Savita Samaj, strongly criticized the minister’s behavior. He said the issue is not about one person but about respect for an entire community. According to him, such words create pain, anger, and division in society.
Hadapada demanded that the minister publicly admit his mistake and offer an apology during the upcoming Assembly session. “An open apology in the House will show that leaders are responsible for their words,” he said.
The community has also called for a new strict law to prevent caste-based verbal abuse. Leaders want the government to ban the use of insulting caste names and take legal action against those who use them. They have asked that such cases be treated as serious offenses, with non-bailable charges and strong punishment.
Savita Samaj leaders warned that if the minister fails to apologize and the government does not promise legal protection, protests will be held across the state. Petitions are also being prepared to submit to the Chief Minister.
Hadapada said the struggle will continue peacefully but firmly until the honor and rights of the community are protected. He added that the movement is not against any individual but against disrespectful language in public life. Community members, including youth and elders, have joined meetings to spread awareness about equality, dignity, and the need for responsible speech from elected representatives today together.