Kaneri math seer stokes fresh row, calls Basava Tatva swamiji as ‘Basava Talibani’

CHIKKODI: Adrushya Kadasiddeshwara Swamiji, the head of the Sri Kshetra Siddhagiri Mahasansthan at Kaneri in Kolhapur, Maharashtra, has stoked a fresh controversy after referring to Basava Tatva swamijis as ‘Basava Talibani’. He made the remarks during a Hanuma Mala deeksha programme organised by Vishwa Hindu Parishad and Bajrang Dal in Raibagh on Sunday.

The swamiji said “They are Basava Talibani, wearing saffron robes and criticizing our traditions. They should leave the math and live a simple life”. He further questioned the way of life of the swamijis, asking why they wear T-shirts and Bermudas at night, visit hotels and bars, and why they are ruining the math.

The comparison of Basava Tatva Swamiji to Talibani has created a huge controversy, with many calling out the Kaneri Swamiji for his remarks. Adrushya Kadasiddeshwara Swamiji had earlier made derogatory remarks against the Lingayat community and its leaders. The swamiji’s comments had sparked widespread outrage and protests across the state.

The Lingayat community, which has a significant presence in Karnataka, had demanded strict action against the swamiji, with some organisations threatening to launch protests and agitations if he did not apologise for his remarks. The community’s leaders, including the Lingayat Maha Sabha, had condemned the swamiji’s comments, stating that they were an insult to the community’s revered saints and traditions.

In response to the controversy, the Karnataka government took action, with the Vijayapura district administration imposing a ban on the swamiji’s entry into the district for two months, citing concerns over law and order. The swamiji challenged the ban in the Karnataka High Court, but the court upheld the government’s decision, stating that his comments had the potential to disturb communal harmony.