Chamarajanagar: Deputy Chief Minister Dr.G. Parameshwara regretted the practise of casteism in the country which could not be found in any other nation.

Speaking after performing Bhoomi Puja and laying the foundation stone for the construction of Nalanda University Study Centre at Yadabetta near Uttuvalli in Chamarajanagar yesterday, he hoped that the University would strive hard to remove the practise of inequality, casteism, untouchability and other social discrimination in society.

Stating that equality would be a distant dream if casteism is not eradicated, Parameshwara said that a lot of inscriptions which are found said  that Buddhism was being practised in Karnataka from time immemorial.

Stating that the previous Congress Government had sanctioned Rs. 10 crore to set up this university, he promised to get more funds from the State’s  Coalition government. Another Rs. 50 lakh would be given for the establishment of a library from his Sri Siddhartha Education Society in Tumkur.

Speaking on the occasion, former Chief Minister Siddharamaiah appreciated the efforts of MP R. Dhruvanarayan in the establishment of the varsity.  

Remembering the contributions of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in social reformation, he said that many religions, including Buddhism took birth to preach against inequality, injustice and social evils. People should rise above all these evils and love people from all sections of  the society.

Reiterating his honest efforts to bring in social justice through various programmes, he said that his government had sanctioned 25 acres of land and funds for this works.

The former Chief Minister refused to talk in detail about religion as he was blamed for the Veerashaiva-Lingayat     religion row.

Backward Classes Welfare  Minister C. Puttarangashetty, MP R. Dhruvanarayan, MLAs N. Mahesh and R. Narendra, Buddhist monks and others were present.  

Follow Star of Mysore on Instagram www.instagram.com/starofmysore