Karnataka Caste Survey: Panchamasalis Identify as Hindu, Lingayat-Panchamasali

Quick Summary

• The Lingayat Panchamasali community decided to use “Lingayat Panchamasali” nomenclature for the caste column in Karnataka’s socio-economic and educational survey (caste census).
• The community will retain “Hindu” in the religion column for now, while discussions on independent religious status for Lingayatism remain unresolved.
• Two meetings regarding this decision were held on September 17, 2025-one in Bengaluru and another in Hubballi. both meetings accepted the “Lingayat Panchamasali” caste identity but debated over religious identification.
• in Bengaluru,consensus was achieved to refrain from mentioning sub-castes and identify as hindus until a separate religion status is formalized. Prominent leaders attended this meeting, including former minister Murugesh Nirani and other community representatives.
• In Hubballi, heated discussions ended with a similar resolution to temporarily list religion as “Hindu,” led by Sri Basava Jaya Mrutyunjaya Swami of Lingayat Panchamasali Peetha at Koodalasangama.

Indian Opinion Analysis

the decision by the Lingayat Panchamasali community reflects a pragmatic approach to navigating cultural identity within India’s existing socio-political framework, particularly prior to resolving ongoing debates about independent religion recognition for Lingayats. It underscores two key priorities: strengthening internal cohesion on caste identity thru unified nomenclature while avoiding immediate complexity regarding religious categorization during official enumeration exercises like the caste census.

By opting for “hindu” as their temporary religious identification across different forums after deliberation, both Bengaluru and Hubballi groups displayed strategic patience-a move likely intended to preserve broader acceptance within Karnataka’s multifaceted social fabric until further clarity or political progress emerges regarding independent recognition of Lingayatism.

The development could be significant within Karnataka’s socio-political sphere given its potential influence on state policies related to depiction or benefits tied to demographic surveys-crucial issues that affect India’s federal structure more broadly when such communities assert distinct identities within larger classifications.

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