Thousands of women gathered at Freedom Park to demand urgent government action regarding their rehabilitation and social security. These former Devadasi women traveled from across Karnataka to voice their struggles and share a list of 24 specific demands with the state administration.
Organized by the Freed Devadasi Mothers’ Maha Kondhwa, the protest highlighted that many families continue to face extreme economic, social, and educational hardships. The participants argued that previous government promises have not been implemented effectively, leaving many without the support they were guaranteed.
Key demands presented during the event included a significant increase in the monthly financial allowance. Specifically, the group requested that the current monthly payment be raised from 2000 to 5000 rupees. Additionally, they urged officials to remove the current 45 year age restriction, ensuring all identified women receive help regardless of their age.
Housing and land ownership also remained central themes of the protest. The women requested safer living spaces and asked for increased funding for housing units in both rural and urban areas. Furthermore, they demanded agricultural land to help support their livelihoods through small-scale industries and farming.
The protesters emphasized that their struggle impacts three generations. Consequently, they asked for expanded educational support, including scholarships and free higher education for their children and grandchildren. They also requested job training and employment opportunities to secure a better economic future. Regarding healthcare, the group called for comprehensive insurance and better medical services for elderly members.
Social Welfare Minister K.H. Muniyappa met with the group and accepted their appeal. While he promised that the government would carefully examine these 24 points, the protesters remained cautious. They stressed that they want to see concrete government actions rather than just verbal assurances. As the community waits for progress, they continue to push for the swift implementation of the pending rehabilitation act. The assembly of thousands remains a powerful reminder of their ongoing fight for dignity and equality.
