Panchamasali Seer Demands OBC Quota for Panchamasali Lingayats
In a recent development, the Lingayat Panchamasali Jagadguru Mahapeeth seer, Basava Jaya Mruthyunjaya Swami, has reiterated his demand for Other Backward Classes (OBC) status for the Panchamasali Lingayats. The seer, during a press conference, urged the Siddaramaiah government to grant OBC reservation to the Panchamasali Lingayat community, highlighting the previous BJP government’s decision to include various sub-sects of Lingayats, including the Panchamasali Lingayats, under the OBC 2D category.
The seer had initially requested the Bommai government to classify the Panchamasali Lingayats under the 2A category, but the government granted them 2D status instead. He revealed that a delegation led by him had met Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and successfully convinced him to consider recommending the Panchamasali Lingayat community for 2A reservation status. Siddaramaiah has assured them that he will address their demands and consult legal experts after the assembly session concludes.
Expressing his concerns, the seer emphasized the importance of clearing all legal obstacles to grant reservation to the Panchamasali Lingayats. He underscored that if the Siddaramaiah government fails to provide justice to their community, he will relaunch a state-wide agitation to fight for their rights.
Inclusion under the OBC category would provide the Panchamasali Lingayats with various benefits, including access to educational and employment opportunities. The Lingayat community, considered one of the largest and influential communities in Karnataka, has been advocating for reservation over the years.
The demand for OBC reservation for the Panchamasali Lingayats has sparked a debate and raised questions about the classification of various sub-sects of Lingayats. The seer’s plea comes in light of the previous government’s decision to include other dominant Lingayat sub-sects under the 2C category, causing dissatisfaction among the Panchamasali Lingayats.
It is essential for the government to carefully consider the demands of the Panchamasali Lingayats and address their concerns. A fair and inclusive approach could not only resolve the ongoing agitation but also promote social harmony and equality in the state.
The Lingayat community holds significant political influence in Karnataka, making it crucial for the government to find a viable solution to meet their demands. As the assembly session concludes, all eyes will be on Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his commitment to fulfilling the promises made to the Panchamasali Lingayats.
Overall, the demand for OBC reservation status for the Panchamasali Lingayats highlights the ongoing discussions surrounding the classification of various Lingayat sub-sects and their access to reservation benefits. The Panchamasali Seer’s plea underscores the need for inclusive policies that address the concerns of all communities, promoting equality and social justice in Karnataka.
