The Akhila Bharatha Billavara Union has called on the Congress party to ensure representation for the Billava community in the new Karnataka cabinet, expected to be formed after DK Shivakumar takes oath as chief minister. Speaking to reporters in Mangaluru on Sunday, Vikhyatananda Swami of Arya Ediga Mahasamsthana, Soluru, demanded that MLC BK Hariprasad be given a ministerial berth in Shivakumar's cabinet. Hariprasad, a seasoned politician and secular leader, is a veteran who has served in the Rajya Sabha and as Leader of the Opposition in the Karnataka Legislative Council.
Community Demands Political Representation
The seer, accompanied by union members, emphasised that the Billava community, which constitutes a significant population in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts, has not achieved political representation commensurate with its numerical strength. He argued that Hariprasad, as an active Billava leader and a follower of Brahmasri Narayana Guru, is best suited to represent the community in the government. Under Hariprasad's leadership, the centenary of the Narayana Guru-Mahatma Gandhi dialogue was successfully organised in Mangaluru, showcasing his commitment to secular values.
Hariprasad's Contributions Recognised
Vikhyatananda Swami highlighted that Hariprasad is a committed leader with secular values and a dedicated worker for backward classes. His inclusion in the council of ministers would enhance the political strength of the cabinet and ensure that the Billava community's interests are adequately represented. The union urged the Congress leadership to consider this demand seriously, given Hariprasad's long-standing service and his role in uplifting the downtrodden.
