Unfortunate that Veerashaiava-Lingayat community which worked for social justice has to seek justice now: Khandre

Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Minister Eshwar Khandre expressed his surprise on Sunday, stating that a community renowned for its commitment to social justice within society is now seeking justice themselves. "It's ironic that such a community faces such a situation," he remarked during the Veerashaiva-Lingayat Dharma Samrakshana convention.

Khandre emphasized that even poor families within the community, like any other, should receive justice. The sharanas had worked tirelessly to promote equality in society and supported every community through education and sustenance, he pointed out, during his address at the convention.

However, Khandre considered it unfortunate that the Veerashaiva-Lingayat community, in the present times, should have to pursue justice. He accused certain individuals of sowing seeds of animosity among communities for their personal benefit. Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, who was present at the convention, was commended by Khandre for his secular mindset.

Khandre also announced that the Anubhava Mantapa, currently under construction at Basavakalyan with a budget of ₹750 crore, would be completed by the end of the following year.

A significant number of Veerashaiva-Lingayat mutts and community leaders were in attendance at the event.