Karnataka Elections 2018: Lingayat, newest religion in the state

The Karnataka state government approved a distinct entity for Lingayat community. This decision will have a strong impact on the coming elections as Lingayat is a strong community in terms of numbers. After three hours of marathon discussion, the Karnataka government took this decision. The Lingayat seers met Karnataka Chief Minister Mr Siddaramaiah and requested him to execute the report prepared by a committee that discussed having a separate legal status for this religious community. The Lingayat community is led by Mr. Gadag-based Tontadarya Mutt's Siddalinga Swami, met the Chief Minister Mr. Siddaramaiah on last Sunday at his residence. The decision came a day after Siddalinga Swami met Mr. Siddaramaiah. This community comprises 17% of Karnataka population. This group gave a strong support to BJP in the past.

The demand for a separate status for Lingayats surfaced from a politically strong group. Akhila Bharata Veerashaiva Mahasabha demanded a separate religious status claiming that Veeerasaiva and Lingayats are the same. However, Lingayats have a different opinion that, Veerasaiva is one of the seven sects of Shaivas, which is a part of Hinduism. Some Lingayats also made a statement that they were open to get Veerashaiva under their umbrella, but they will not compromise on the nomenclature of Lingayats.

A seven member committee was formed by the Karnataka which was headed by a retired high court judge Mr H.N.Nagamohan Das. They submitted a report on 2nd March. They gave a report that Lingayats in Karnataka may be considered as a religious minority.

The Lingayat and Veerashaiva community owns their origin to the 12th century. It was initiated by a social movement led by Basaveshwara. This religious community has a substantial presence in Karnataka, especially North Karnataka. Karnataka Elections