Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has made a powerful appeal for a societal shift towards rationalism and scientific thinking, urging citizens to abandon deep-rooted superstitions and regressive customs. He delivered this message during a significant public event in Mandya district.
A Call for Scientific Temper Over Blind Faith
The Chief Minister was speaking at the valedictory ceremony of the 1066th Jayanti Mahotsava of Adi Jagadguru Sri Shivarathreeshwara Shivayogi, held in Malavalli, Mandya district. Siddaramaiah expressed his concern that blind faith and outdated social practices continue to hold sway, even among the educated sections of society. He emphasized that for true progress, rational education grounded in a scientific temper must reach every stratum of the community.
He framed this call for enlightenment within the legacy of the Basavadi Sharanas, whose ideals, he stated, inspire a move towards logic and reason over irrational belief. The CM pointed out that superstition acts as a barrier to social and intellectual development.
Caste Barriers: An Obstacle to Peace and Equality
Delving into another critical social issue, Siddaramaiah asserted that persistent inequality is a direct result of rigid caste divisions. He stated unequivocally that a social order based on caste hierarchy can never ensure genuine and lasting peace in society.
He recalled that great philosophers and the Basavadi Sharanas themselves were consistent opponents of such divisive systems. In his address, the Chief Minister echoed the vision of renowned Kannada poet Kuvempu, who championed the concept of a universal human society transcending man-made barriers.
The Path Forward: Empowerment and Education
Outlining the solution, Siddaramaiah stressed that dismantling the entrenched walls of caste requires a two-pronged approach. He highlighted the necessity for strong social and economic empowerment programs alongside the spread of rational education. This combination, he suggested, is vital for creating a more equitable and just society.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Suttur seer Sri Shivarathri Deshikendra Mahaswamiji, and state ministers N Cheluvarayaswamy and HC Mahadevappa. The presence of these figures underscored the importance of the gathering and the widespread relevance of the themes discussed by the Chief Minister.
Siddaramaiah's speech in Mandya serves as a clear reiteration of his government's focus on social reform through progressive thought, positioning scientific rationality and the fight against caste discrimination as central pillars for Karnataka's development.
