Seer flags bid to split Hindus along Lingayat, Veerashaiva lines

A seer has raised concerns over what he described as attempts to create divisions among Hindus by pitting Lingayat and Veerashaiva identities against each other. Speaking at a convention in Karnataka, he said such efforts were being made by individuals who present themselves as champions of Basaveshwara's progressive legacy.

The seer alleged that these individuals were selective in their criticism, opposing Hindu traditions in public while simultaneously accepting positions, recognition and other benefits from institutions linked to the same society. He questioned the consistency of such a stance, suggesting that it amounted to a double standard.

The remarks come amid continuing debate in Karnataka over the relationship between the Lingayat and Veerashaiva communities, both of which trace their roots to the 12th-century social reformer Basaveshwara. The two identities have often been discussed in political and social circles, with periodic demands for separate recognition.

By invoking Basaveshwara's progressive ideals, the seer sought to underline that the reformer's message was one of unity and social equality rather than division. He urged the community to remain alert against attempts to create fissures along identity lines.

The convention provided a platform for the seer to address followers and reiterate his position on the need for cohesion. No further details about the event or the specific individuals referred to were immediately available.