Would Religious Conversion Occur if Equality Existed? K'taka CM
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Synopsis
In a compelling discourse, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah questions the motives behind religious conversions in society. He emphasizes the need for equality and equal opportunities across all communities while responding to BJP's allegations regarding caste classification within the Christian community. This conversation sheds light on the intersection of social justice and religious identity.
Key Takeaways
- Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah questions the need for religious conversion in a just society.
- The BJP raises concerns about caste classification within the Christian community.
- A comprehensive caste census is planned from September 22 to October 7.
- 1.75 lakh teachers will assist in the upcoming survey.
- The cost for teacher honorariums is estimated at Rs. 325 crore.
Mysuru (Karnataka), Sep 13 (NationPress) In response to the BJP's assertions regarding the promotion of religious conversions through caste classification within the Christian community in the caste census, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah raised a thought-provoking question: if equality and equal opportunities prevailed in society, would there be a need for religious conversions?
During a media interaction at Mysuru Airport on Saturday, CM Siddaramaiah elaborated on this topic while addressing inquiries related to the BJP's accusations.
In reaction to the BJP's claims that the state government is introducing new castes in the caste census, the Chief Minister further questioned what actions the Centre has taken regarding caste enumeration.
CM Siddaramaiah emphasized that for anyone who has undergone a religious conversion, only their current caste will be acknowledged.
He pointed out that while religious conversions may not be sought after, individuals sometimes convert due to social pressures, and they will be recognized according to their current caste.
He posed the question: if Hindu society truly embodies equality and equal opportunity, why do religious conversions occur? “How did untouchability emerge? Did we create this practice?” the CM asked.
The Chief Minister further asserted that conversions will happen in the presence of inequality across Hindu, Muslim, and Christian religions, calling conversion a fundamental right.
It is noteworthy that the BJP in Karnataka has been critical of the Congress government’s classification of castes within the Christian community, demanding immediate clarification on the existence of multiple castes and questioning whether this initiative is intended to encourage conversions to Christianity and disrupt the Hindu community.
BJP's chief whip in the legislative council, MLC N. Ravikumar, raised skepticism about the existence of castes such as Kuruba Christian, Lingayat Christian, and others, claiming that 47 new castes have been introduced.
“Does the government recognize multiple castes within the Christian community? Immediate clarification is required,” Ravikumar insisted, alleging that the government is trying to fracture Hindu religion and society, which he termed a conspiracy to further divide the Hindu community.
Ravikumar humorously remarked that perhaps even Christians are unaware of these 47 newly formed castes.
Additionally, he questioned whether the government, under Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, intended to establish new castes to facilitate Christian conversions, and whether any formal notification had been issued.
The Karnataka government has announced a comprehensive Socio-Economic and Educational survey scheduled between September 22 and October 7, coinciding with the Dussehra holidays.
On Friday, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah urged all citizens of Karnataka to actively engage in this comprehensive survey, which will be managed by the Karnataka State Backward Classes Commission.
“The survey will be conducted by deploying around 1.75 lakh teachers, who will receive an honorarium of up to Rs 20,000, with the total expenditure on honorariums estimated at approximately Rs. 325 crore,” CM Siddaramaiah announced.
He mentioned that the Backward Classes Commission is anticipated to submit the survey report, commonly referred to as the caste census survey, by December.
Moreover, Karnataka BJP President and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra criticized the Congress government for previously spending Rs 165 crore on the Kantaraaju Commission’s caste census, only to dismiss it as outdated, and now planning to invest Rs 425 crore for another census.
He urged the Chief Minister to ensure that this new initiative does not become a means for political manipulation, as was alleged with the Kantaraaju Commission report.
Point of View
It’s important to recognize the complexities surrounding caste and religion in India. CM Siddaramaiah raises critical questions about social justice and equality, challenging the existing narratives. In a nation that prides itself on diversity, these discussions are essential for fostering understanding and unity among various communities. The government's efforts towards a comprehensive caste survey could play a pivotal role in addressing these long-standing issues.
NationPress
03/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah say about religious conversions?
He questioned if religious conversions would happen if there was true equality and equal opportunities in society.
What are the BJP's concerns regarding the caste census?
The BJP alleges that the government is introducing new castes for political gains and to promote conversions to Christianity.
What is the timeline for the Socio-Economic and Educational survey in Karnataka?
The survey is set to take place from September 22 to October 7.
How many teachers will be involved in the upcoming survey?
Approximately 1.75 lakh teachers will be deployed for the survey.
What is the estimated cost for the teacher honorariums in the survey?
The estimated cost for providing honorariums is around Rs. 325 crore.
