Bengaluru: There is intense outrage from the Lingayat community against Union Minister V. Muraleedhar Somanna. "He has tied a linga to his wrist but considers himself upper caste in his mind. This society will trample his mindset and turn it to dust," condemned Shankar Bidari, executive member of the Lingayat Mahasabha. In the context of opposing the Karnataka government's implementation of the caste census report, Somanna's previous statements have sparked controversy.also read : Vachana University to Be Established in 2026: CM Siddaramaiah Announces..!!

Somanna criticized Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, saying the report shows Lingayats' population as lower and is making him a "villain in history." However, Lingayats accuse this of being an insult to their own community's caste. As Bidari said, "As a Lingayat leader, Somanna is not protecting his community's interests but fostering an upper caste mindset for political gains. Society must shun such people."also read : Mysuru Tourism Gets a Boost: 13 New Attractions Added!

According to the report, Lingayats' population has dropped to 11.09%, and recommendations to increase 8% reservation for Muslims have fueled the dispute.These allegations have created confusion within the BJP. Somanna has already defended his statement, saying "truthfulness is needed in caste census matters." This controversy is giving a new twist to the state's politics, with Lingayat and Vokkaliga communities calling for unity. Pressure to cancel the government report is mounting, and petitions have been filed in the High Court.SIRIL Women's Shimmer Chiffon Sequence Embroidery Saree With Unstitched Blouse Piece for Wedding and Parties