Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Warns Against 'Sanatanis' and Urges Following Ambedkar's Vision for Social Change

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has issued a strong warning to the public to distance themselves from 'sanatanis' and remain vigilant about the activities of RSS and Sangh Parivar, highlighting their historical opposition to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and the Constitution he crafted.

"Maintain appropriate associations. Connect with those who support society, rather than individuals who resist social progress or 'sanatanis'," Siddaramaiah remarked while inaugurating the silver jubilee celebrations of Mysore University and unveiling the new Jnana Darshana building.

Addressing the recent incident where a shoe was thrown at Chief Justice of India (BR Gavai), the Chief Minister stated, "The fact that a 'sanatani' hurled a shoe at the chief justice demonstrates the continued existence of 'sanatanis' and orthodox elements in our society. This action deserves universal condemnation, not just from Dalits but from everyone. Only then can we claim that society is progressing toward positive change." Siddaramaiah further alleged that the RSS and Sangh Parivar opposed Ambedkar's Constitution historically and continue to do so today, urging citizens to remain alert.

Describing Ambedkar as a visionary who utilized knowledge for social transformation, he noted, "Ambedkar acquired knowledge to comprehend society and employed it throughout his lifetime to transform social structures." He accused the BJP and Sangh Parivar of circulating false information regarding Ambedkar, stating, "They are propagating the falsehood that Congress defeated Ambedkar in elections. However, the truth is what Ambedkar himself documented—'Savarkar and Dange defeated me.' Such facts must be presented to society to expose the Sangh Parivar's misinformation."

Discussing the Ambedkar School of Economics, Siddaramaiah explained, "I established it so those studying Ambedkar could follow his path. Ambedkar remains incomparable. While another Ambedkar will never emerge, everyone should embrace his ideals and follow his example." Commending Ambedkar's contribution to the nation, the Chief Minister said, "He studied and incorporated elements from constitutions worldwide to provide India with the most suitable Constitution for its unique society." He added that his own beliefs align with the philosophies of Buddha, Basava (the 12th-century social reformer), and Ambedkar. "This is why I advocate for rationality and scientific thinking. One should not study science yet practice superstition," he emphasized.

Siddaramaiah also praised Mysore University's Ambedkar Study Centre on completing 25 years and welcomed the inauguration of the 'Vishwa Jnani Ambedkar Sabha Bhavana'.

"Disparate opportunities have generated inequality. Education is not anyone's hereditary right. What people require is opportunity. When provided, they can develop into scholars and intellectuals," he asserted, reiterating, "Ambedkar was an exceptional visionary who employed his knowledge for social transformation."