‘We will take our protests to every village and taluk’

The Panchamasali Lingayat community, a major socio-political force in Karnataka, has been protesting for inclusion in the 2A reservation category for education and government jobs, moving from the current 3A status.

For four years, under the leadership of seer Basavajaya Mrutynjaya of the Kudalasangama Mutt, the community has held numerous rallies. Two massive protests were held during the state legislature sessions in Belagavi—one in 2023 and another during the ongoing session.

In an interview with Hindustan Times, the seer addressed allegations of political lathi charge, clarified the community's stance on the reservation demand, and reflected on his role as a religious leader.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has stated in the legislative assembly that your demand is unconstitutional. He has even accused your demands as "blackmailing the government with BJP's support." What is your view?

As a senior legislator and a second-term chief minister, Siddaramaiah's remarks are disappointing. It is every citizen's constitutional right to demand better opportunities for their community. Calling our legitimate demand unconstitutional is baseless.