In a stern message to the Karnataka government, Jain seer Sri Gunadhar Nandi Maharaj has warned that he may be forced to undertake Sallekhana—a traditional Jain practice of voluntary fasting unto death—if the longstanding demands of the Jain community continue to be neglected.
Speaking at the All India Bhattarak Conference and Jain Convention held at Ainapur village in Kagwad taluk, the seer addressed a large gathering of community members. He expressed deep dissatisfaction over the government’s repeated inaction. “We have submitted our demands several times, but no action has been taken. If this neglect persists, we may resort to Sallekhana as a form of protest,” he said.
He sharply criticised the Congress-led government, stating, “We supported this government with our votes. We’re not demanding grants for our Mathas, but we are seeking a scheme that facilitates pilgrimage to Shikharji for Jain women at government expense.”
The community has submitted a memorandum outlining seven major demands, including the formation of a separate corporation for Jains. Raising concerns over recent census data, the seer said, “There are lakhs of Jains in Chikkodi, but the census shows only 1.5 lakh. This is entirely misleading.” He also pointed out the drastic reduction in welfare allocations, urging the state to allocate sufficient funds for the Jain community in the upcoming budget.
The convention was also attended by Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot, who received the memorandum. In his address, he lauded the contributions of the Jain community to nation-building and emphasized its commitment to service. “Jainism is a vital part of India’s cultural and religious fabric. The community has made immense contributions to education, healthcare, and social service through institutions like gaushalas, hospitals, and old-age homes,” he said.
Calling the Jain community peace-loving and service-oriented, Governor Gehlot urged citizens to adopt the teachings of Bhagavan Mahavir in their lives. “Social service should become a part of daily life. The principles of truth, non-violence, and compassion as taught by Mahavir are essential for inner peace and social harmony,” he stated.
He also highlighted India’s ancient values of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam and Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah, stressing their relevance in today’s world. “Religion plays a crucial role in organising society and preserving cultural values. Teachings like Ahimsa Paramo Dharma and Live and Let Live are needed more than ever in the current times of unrest,” he added.
Also present at the event were Shri Gunadhar Nandi Maharaj of Navagraha Teertha, Varur (Hubballi), former Deputy Chief Minister Laxman Savadi, and other dignitaries.
