Expressing frustration with the state government, Lingayat Panchamasali leaders, led by Basava Jaya Mrutyunjaya Swami of the Kudalasangama Panchamasali Peetha, announced plans to lay siege to Suvarna Soudha during the upcoming winter session of the State legislature in Belagavi. They are renewing their demand for inclusion in the 2A reservation category.
The seer, dissatisfied with the government’s response during a recent meeting with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in Bengaluru, said, “Over 10,000 Panchamasali lawyers, along with 5,000 tractors, will rally in Belagavi to press for our demands.”
Currently, the Lingayat Panchamasali community is classified under Category 3B, which offers reservation benefits to Lingayats and their sub-groups.
Government Open to Discussions: CM
After the meeting, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah maintained that the government was open to considering the community’s request. However, he clarified that no decision could be taken immediately due to the enforcement of the election model code of conduct for the upcoming bypolls in three Assembly constituencies.
The seer criticized this stance, stating the meeting had been scheduled before the bypoll announcement. “These elections cover only three constituencies, and we don’t intend to politicize the issue. We will escalate our protest,” he warned.
Siddaramaiah reiterated that the government would consult the Advocate-General, Law Department, and experts before making any decisions. “Our focus is on social justice. Actions will be in line with the Constitution, ensuring fairness to all marginalised groups,” he said.
Awaiting Commission Report
The Chief Minister noted that the permanent backward classes commission’s final recommendations on the 2A reservation issue were still pending. “We will act with transparency and according to legal procedures once the report is received,” he assured. He also reminded community leaders that reservation proposals must go through the commission and withstand judicial scrutiny.
Further Discussions Planned
Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, also present at the meeting, indicated that more discussions with the community are in the pipeline. He emphasized that the reservation matter is currently before the courts, restricting the government’s ability to intervene.
Referring to the BJP’s handling of the issue, Shivakumar added, “The previous government caused confusion by rushing through reservation changes and later submitted an affidavit in court saying it would not implement them. Our government cannot interfere in ongoing legal matters.”
