Dalits need greater share in politics and administration, says Parameshwara

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister and Revenue Minister G. Parameshwara has made a case for greater representation of Dalit communities in politics and administration, arguing that their all-round progress depends on access to opportunities in education and employment as well.

Speaking in Davangere on Sunday, he said the State's political and administrative systems must open up adequately to oppressed communities if comprehensive community development is to be achieved.

Dr. Parameshwara recalled that several capable Dalit leaders had not received their due. He named Basavalingappa, K.H. Ranganath and Mallikarjun Kharge, asking whether anyone was more capable, intellectually accomplished or experienced than them, and noting that Kharge had handled many portfolios without any allegations against him. Yet, he said, none of them were made Chief Minister or Deputy Chief Minister.

He pointed out that since 1952 the State had seen many elections and many leaders occupy high offices, including that of Chief Minister, but it was only in 2018 that he became Deputy Chief Minister. The community, he said, had to wait that long for high-level political representation of that kind.

Dr. Parameshwara said there was a need to reflect on why it took so many years for a person from the community to reach the post, even as there is frequent talk of encouraging communities to strive for all-round progress.

He acknowledged that the reasons for his elevation may be many and varied, but stressed that the Congress party had once again entrusted him with the responsibility of serving as Deputy Chief Minister. He said he believes he holds the position to raise his voice for the oppressed communities of the State, and that he will work for those who have suffered, faced discrimination and been neglected by society.

The Deputy Chief Minister was speaking after inaugurating a merit felicitation programme organised by the Davanagere District Chalavadi Mahasabha at the S.S. Mallikarjun Cultural Hall in Bapuji Engineering College. The event honoured meritorious students who secured the highest marks during the 2025-26 academic year.