Lingayats – UPSC Prelims

Lingayats are classified as a Hindu sub-caste called Veerashaiva Lingayats.

They are essentially followers of the 12th-century philosopher Saint Basavanna who was against the caste system and Vedic rituals.

They are a dominant community who make up nearly 17% of Karnataka’s six crore population.

The Lingayats are strict monotheists. They enjoin the worship of only one God, namely, Linga (Shiva).

Lingayatism rejects any form of social discrimination including the caste system.

The Lingayats always wear the Ishtalinga (a necklace with a pendant that contains a small Shiva Linga). They believe that they will be reunited with Shiva after their death by wearing the lingam.

Lingayats are not cremated but are buried in a sitting, meditative position.

Currently, Veerashaiva Lingayats have been provided 5% reservation under a special category called 3B.

However, a sub-sect called the Panchamasali Lingayats are demanding reservations under the category 2A. This category currently provides 15% reservations to backward castes. Panchamasali Lingayats are basically agriculturists who account for nearly 70% of Lingayats.

Hence, Karnataka CM has directed the chairman of the Karnataka Backward Classes Commission to conduct a study. The Commission will submit a report on the social, economic, and educational status of the Panchamasali community to determine their inclusion under the 2A category.