Karnataka CM’s Aide Sparks Row, Says Lingayat Is Ideological Movement, Not Caste or Religion

Lingayat Is Ideological Movement, Not Caste or Religion, Says Karnataka CM’s Aide

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s Economic Advisor, Basavaraj Rayareddy, has stirred controversy by stating that Lingayat is neither a caste nor a religion, but an ideological movement, adding that even Hinduism is a culture.

The remarks come in the midst of Karnataka’s socio-economic and educational survey conducted by the State Commission for Backward Classes. The BJP has accused the Congress government of attempting to divide Hindus by allowing an “others” option under the religion section of the survey, a move the party claims could prompt communities like Lingayats to identify separately.

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BJP Response and Criticism
BJP State President Vijayendra alleged that the Siddaramaiah government is pushing a divisive agenda under the guise of a socio-economic survey. He stated, “Their aim is to create divisions within the Veerashaiva-Lingayat community. This is not the first time such attempts have been made.”

BJP leaders plan to consult the Veerashaiva Mahasabha and senior Swamijis and Jagadgurus to ensure the community remains united. Former Karnataka CM Basavaraj Bommai also weighed in via X, urging the Veerashaiva Lingayat Mahasabha to clarify the community’s stance “in accordance with the law and the constitution.” Bommai highlighted the confusion around terms like Veerashaiva, Lingayat, or Veerashaiva Lingayat, noting that including an atheist column in the survey seemed directed at Siddaramaiah.

Community Meetings on Survey Strategy
On September 16, BJP Lingayat leaders met in Bengaluru to discuss the upcoming caste census and strategize how members should list their caste in the survey to prevent community division.

The debate over the survey highlights the delicate balance between socio-economic data collection and political sensitivities in Karnataka, especially among influential communities like the Lingayats.