Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (MS)

Mangaluru, Apr 18: In the coastal districts of Karnataka, known for its history of communalism, a hopeful and influential development is gaining attention.

Approximately 100 Brahmin leaders from Dakshina Kannada have united under the banner of the like-minded Brahmin forum, named ‘Samana Manaskara Brahmana Vedike’. They are raising their voices against religious intolerance, communalism, and ideologies that undermine democratic principles. Despite their relatively small numbers in coastal Karnataka, the political influence wielded by Brahmins carries considerable weight.

The forum is actively pushing back against the stereotype that all Brahmins are communalists aligned with the BJP. They vehemently oppose the notion that Brahmins who do not support the BJP are somehow not authentic Brahmins. This stance promises to reshape the political and social landscape of coastal Karnataka significantly.

Additionally, the forum has committed to ensuring that government facilities reach economically disadvantaged Brahmins. This proactive step aims to address socioeconomic disparities within the Brahmin community.

Sridhara Bide, an influential leader, said, "Being a Brahmin means loving all people of India and spearheading societal reform. Brahmins have historically fostered a culture of Hindu-Muslim unity. There is absolutely no room for narrow-mindedness among us."

Renowned thinker Rajarama Tolpady stressed the importance of sending a clear message to the Brahmin community, especially when the very ideals of democracy are under threat from like-minded Brahmins.

T R Bhat, a senior leader of the bank employees' association, asserted, "It is imperative that we speak out against the notion that all Brahmins must align with a particular ideology or political party. It's crucial to maintain the ability to oppose prevailing conditions in the country."

M G Hegde, the organizer of the programme, said, "We will firmly respond to Brahmins who intimidate families that do not support the BJP and communal organizations, publicly humiliating them and causing trouble in business dealings. Our priority is to ensure that impoverished Brahmins receive the government's provided facilities."

"Some Brahmins must transcend the petty mentality of harassing, threatening, and envying others based on their political views. Such behavior only leads to unnecessary friction. In a democratic society, individuals have the freedom to choose their political affiliations. If anyone faces harassment for their political stance, it signals a dangerous situation. We have tolerated such attitudes among a few Brahmins for too long. Now, we will take steps to address it. If any communal-minded Brahmins harass others within our community, we urge individuals to bring it to our attention. Together, we will confront it unitedly," he said.

Bhat also announced that in the coming days, Brahmins who demonstrate tolerance and love towards people of other communities will be organized on a large scale.

Senior leader of Suratkal Gururaja Acharya, Betta Rajarama Bhatta, Mahesh Kumara Sullia, Satyendra Venur, retired senior bank officer T R Bhat, Dr Shivananda Mundaje, Ramesh Kote, K Raghavendra, Vinaya Acharya, Betta Jayarama Bhatta, Dinesh Rao Balakrishna Bhatta Kemmattu, Swarna Bhatta, lawyer Vidya Bhatta, Namita Rao, Chaitanya Bhatta and Praveena Bhatta Puttur were present.