Daijiworld Media Network - Dharwad (SP)

Dharwad, Jul 21: "I am of the view that Lingayatism is an independent religion in real sense. If there is no differences of opinion about this fact among the people of this community, I am prepared to recommend to the central government to announce this as a separate, independent religion," said Karnataka chief minister, Siddaramaiah. His announcement gains significance in view of the efforts being made by different political parties to woo Lingayats towards them.

Speaking after accepting felicitation extended to him at Murugha Math here on Thursday July 20, Siddaramaiah said that state governments are not empowered to declare any particular belief system as independent religion. "I can send my recommendation. I will do that after holding discussions with leaders of Lingayat community," he assured.

The chief minister also said that religion has been created for people and not vice versa. Therefore, religion should always be backed by humanity. He said he is opposed to the efforts being made to break religion on the lines of castes, adding that the system which wedges a divide between people and society cannot be called a religion.