Siddaramaiah’s Caste Survey Sparks Political Storm In Karnataka As Lingayat Religion Versus Hindu Identity Debate Grows

National News: The Karnataka government's survey has sparked a new debate in the Lingayat community. A large section wants them to be given a separate status from Hinduism. On the other hand, many leaders are saying that Lingayats should be counted as part of Hinduism. This difference of opinion has now become a direct political issue. Forest Minister of Siddaramaiah government, Ishwar Khandre said that in the survey, write 'other' in the religion column and describe oneself as Veerashaiva-Lingayat. He also said that Lingayat or Veerashaiva will have to be entered in the caste column and sub-caste in the third column. This statement created more controversy.

BJP's counter-attack

BJP leaders have strongly criticized this suggestion. They allege that the Congress wants to divide Hindu votes by raising this issue. Former Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai said that the Veerashaiva-Lingayat Mahasabha is standing with the Congress and this is an attempt to mislead the society.

The Constitution Argument

Bommai said that only six religions are mentioned in the Constitution, so writing the name of any new religion will create confusion. BJP President B.Y. Vijayendra also clearly said that we are Hindus and our identity should remain the same. He accused the Congress of hatching a conspiracy.

Separate identity of Lingayats

The Lingayat community believes that they are not a part of Hinduism. They believe in Shiva as God, do not worship idols and reject the caste system. This is the reason why there has been a demand for a separate religion for a long time, but they are still counted as a sub-caste.

Politics of Siddharamaya

The opposition alleges that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is using this caste survey for his political advantage. Congress wants the Lingayat vote bank to come in its favour. But this move may backfire as the society seems to be divided from within.

Karnataka Caste Survey Debate Intensifying

This entire controversy has shaken up politics in Karnataka. Congress is hoping that the survey will support it, while BJP is calling it an attack on Hinduism. This debate will intensify in the coming days and it can have a direct impact on the assembly elections.