A prominent seer from a mutt on the Maharashtra-Karnataka border has ignited a fresh controversy with a provocative comparison, drawing sharp reactions and reviving past tensions.
Controversial Speech at VHP Event
Kadasiddheshwar Swamiji of the Kanneri Mutt, located in Kolhapur district near the Maharashtra border, made the contentious remarks on Sunday. He was addressing a gathering at a Hanuma Mala Deeksha programme organized by the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) in Raibag town.
The seer stated that those who wear the Hanuma Mala never stray onto a wrong path or develop bad habits. However, he then targeted a specific group by saying, "but some Basava Talibanis, who dress like us, criticise this practice too." This direct comparison of Lingayat seers who follow the Basava philosophy to 'Talibanis' has been perceived as highly inflammatory.
History of Restrictions and Past Remarks
This is not the first time the seer has found himself in the midst of a storm due to his statements against Lingayat seers. His latest comments come against the backdrop of existing administrative action against him.
Recently, the district administrations of Vijayapura and Bagalkot issued orders restricting his entry into their jurisdictions. These orders were a direct consequence of earlier controversial remarks he had made targeting the Lingayat community and its spiritual leaders.
Implications and Rising Tensions
The use of the term 'Talibanis' in a socio-religious context within India is particularly charged and risks deepening communal and sectarian fault lines. The Lingayat community, which follows the 12th-century social reformer Basavanna's philosophy, is a significant demographic and political force in Karnataka.
Such comparisons are likely to:
- Provoke strong condemnation from Lingayat seers and organizations.
- Lead to demands for stricter legal action against the seer.
- Potentially escalate tensions in the already sensitive border region of Belagavi.
The incident underscores the ongoing and often volatile interplay of religion, politics, and community identity in the region. Authorities are likely monitoring the situation closely to prevent any law and order issues following the provocative speech.
