Caste Census : Lingayats To Hold Rally In Delhi

Business Aajkal, Pune, 07 May 2025: The Lingayat community, primarily based in Karnataka, has intensified its longstanding demand for recognition as a separate religion. This movement has gained renewed momentum with plans for a significant rally in Delhi, organized by the All India Lingayat Committee, to advocate for both a caste census and distinct religious status. The Congress party has expressed support for this cause, with prominent leaders like Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra expected to address the gathering.
Historical Context
The Lingayat tradition traces its origins to the 12th-century reformer Basavanna, who championed an egalitarian society and rejected caste hierarchies and ritualistic practices prevalent in orthodox Hinduism. Over time, however, Lingayats have often been categorized under the broader Hindu umbrella, leading to internal debates about their distinct identity. 
In 2018, the Karnataka government, led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, accepted the recommendations of a panel headed by retired High Court judge H.N. Nagamohan Das. The panel advocated for granting religious minority status to Lingayats, distinguishing them from Veerashaivas, who are considered a Shaivite sect within Hinduism. The state government's proposal was forwarded to the Central Government but was not approved. 
Current Developments
The upcoming rally in Delhi aims to press the Central Government to conduct a caste census and recognize Lingayats as a separate religious entity. Shivanand Hulyalkar, General Secretary of the All India Lingayat Committee and a Congress leader, argues that the absence of detailed demographic data has hindered the community's access to affirmative action benefits and full recognition under the Scheduled Castes (SC) or Scheduled Tribes (ST) categories.
The Congress party's involvement, including Rahul Gandhi's previous initiation into the Lingayat sect through the Ishtalinga deeksha, underscores its commitment to the community's cause. This engagement is seen as both a spiritual alignment and a strategic political move to garner support from the influential Lingayat population.
Political Implications
The Lingayat community constitutes a significant demographic in Karnataka, estimated to be between 10 to 12 million people, and holds considerable sway in state politics. Historically, their support has been pivotal for both the Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The renewed push for separate religious status and a caste census could influence upcoming elections and reshape political alliances, especially if the community perceives tangible support from national parties.
The demand for recognition as a separate religion remains a contentious issue, with potential ramifications for India's socio-political landscape. The outcome of the proposed rally and the government's response may set a precedent for other communities seeking similar recognition.