Caste census in Karnataka

Mysuru: BJP State President B.Y. Vijayendra has cautioned that deliberate attempts are being made to create discord not only within the Veerashaiva community but across the broader Hindu faith. He urged people to remain vigilant and united in countering such divisive agendas.

Speaking at the inauguration of the new building of Sri Gurumalleshwara Dasoha Mutt and Student Hostel in Agrahara yesterday, Vijayendra indirectly referred to the State Government’s ongoing Social and Educational Survey-2025 (caste census), voicing concern over its implications.

“It is disheartening to see that certain elements within our own community are involved in efforts to create rifts among Veerashaivas,” he said. “Religion must guide politics, but politics should not infiltrate religion. Unfortunately, we are  witnessing attempts to politicise faith,” he alleged.

Vijayendra acknowledged that such divisive efforts may yield temporary gains but warned that they cannot last. “Those at the top must come down and those at the bottom must rise. When the time comes, we will rise. They must understand this fundamental truth,”  he asserted.

Calling upon the Veerashaiva community to remain steadfast, he said, “Our community must face these challenges with courage, resilience  and unity.”

He also highlighted the vital role of religious institutions in Karnataka’s development, stating that the selfless service of Mutts has been instrumental in driving educational, social and spiritual progress.  “Without these institutions, Karnataka would have lagged far behind in education,”  he observed.

Mutts, he noted, have provided both learning and spiritual guidance to millions of children, and he urged political leaders to recognise and respect their contributions.

Service of Mutts

Expressing concern over the declining spirit of selfless service, Suttur Seer Sri Shivarathri Deshikendra Swamiji noted that even Mutts are now facing a shortage of volunteers willing to serve.

“Karnataka is home to more than 3,000 Mutts, many of which are dedicated to dasoha (charitable service). The guiding principle of every Mutt is that no one who comes seeking help should leave hungry and this is ensured through their daily food service,” the Swamiji said.

“Alongside annadasoha (food service), Mutts also nurture jnanadasoha (service of knowledge), fostering spiritual growth, reflection and awareness,” he added.

The event was attended by Dr. Mummadi Nirvana Swamiji of Kanakapura’s Shri Temple, along with former MLAs L. Nagendra and M.K. Somashekar.

‘Ongoing caste survey is rushed and ill-prepared’

BJP State President B.Y. Vijayendra has raised concerns over the confusion surrounding the ongoing Social and Educational Survey-2025, hinting that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s urgency may be tied to the speculated “November revolution” within Congress ranks.

Speaking to reporters yesterday, Vijayendra said the survey decision appeared rushed and poorly prepared. “What I fail to understand is the reason behind the haste shown by the State Government and the CM. Is the talk of an October or November revolution in Congress circles connected to this survey?” he asked.

Reiterating the BJP’s commitment to social justice, he cited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “historic announcement” of a nationwide caste census — an exercise not attempted since Independence. He questioned the need for a separate survey in Karnataka when a national census had already been announced.

He also alluded to internal Congress discussions about a “November revolution,” noting that AICC leader K.C. Venugopal, while attempting to quell speculation, did not completely rule out a leadership change in the State.

Vijayendra further claimed that Karnataka could witness sweeping political shifts in November, after the Bihar Assembly elections.