Karnataka government gives Lingayats separate religion status
In a political gamble ahead of the Assembly polls, Karnataka's Congress-led Siddaramaiah government granted a special religious minority status to the Lingayats and Veerashaiva-Lingayats. This move acknowledges four decade long demand by the Lingayats. BJP slammed Congress for this opportunistic move. Now, this proposal will be sent to the Centre for final approval, which may impact BJP's prospects in the upcoming elections.
Who are the Lingayats?
Lingayats are the followers of the 12th century social reformer Basavanna. He launched a strong spiritual, social and religious movement against Brahminical practices and rituals. He asked his followers to follow the "ishtalinga" (formless God). He spoke in simple Kannada, attracting many followers.
What is the background of the Lingayat demand?
Within Lingayats, there are about 92 sub-castes. Veerashaivas are among them. They are ardent Lord Shiva followers and believe in Vedas and Agamas. They are mainly against the polytheistic nature of Hinduism. Lingayats claim that Veerashaivas, the more politically and economically dominant group, are destroying the revolutionary faith founded by Basavanna. Moreover, they want recognition that their religion is an entity separate from Hinduism.
But, then why are Lingayats-Veerashaivas clashing?
After the announcement, Lingayat and Veerashaiva followers clashed in Kalaburagi. Lingayats celebrated the decision, while Veerashaivas protested against it. There is a divide within the community over projecting the sects as same. The Nagamohan Das committee recommending this move is silent on this fractious issue. But, by accepting their demand, Karnataka government has made it clear that Veerashaivas are part of Lingayats.
What is the politics behind this move?
Notably, Lingayats can influence the outcome in nearly 100 of 224 Assembly seats. They comprise 17% of the state's population and traditionally support the BJP. With this move, the Congress aims to split BJP's Lingayat voter-base. Meanwhile, BJP's tallest leader in the state, Yeddyurappa, belongs to the community. His position has been that there is no difference between Veerashaivas and Lingayats. Both are part of Hinduism.
So, what does a separate minority religious status mean?
Lingayats, classified as OBCs, currently have 5% reservation. Now, with the religious minority status move, the Lingayats will get a constitutional status at par with the Buddhists, who enjoy reservation outside the Hindu ambit. Indian Constitution grants religious minorities right to establish/administer their own educational institutions. The Cabinet will ratify this move in their next meeting and would recommend Centre to do the same.
