Census: Dalits mention Buddhism as religion

Boudha Mahasabha's decision followed

Enumerators involved in the socio educational census are facing a unique problem in Mandya district with people belonging to Dalit communities insisting on entering Buddhism, in place of Hinduism, in the religion column.

Upset over the existing discrimination in Hindu religion, several Dalits are reportedly mentioning their religion as Buddhism in the census. Though the family members provide information on sub-caste as Adi Karnataka, Madiga, etc, they have been insisting on Buddhism for the space allocated for religion.

Speaking to Deccan Herald, Bharatiya Boudha Mahasabha district unit president M C Shivaraju said, Dr B R Ambedkar embraced Buddhism, which preaches equality, during his twilight years. “He also called upon his followers to embrace Buddhism which spreads the message of humanity and equality. The followers of Ambedkar have no issue over mentioning their caste as Buddhism,” he clarified.

Meeting

Moreover, the Mahasabha, during a meeting held in Bengaluru recently, has decided to enter Buddhism as religion in the census across the State. Awareness has been created in this regard among Dalits, he added.

Dalit community people, dejected over the existing caste system, untouchability and other practices in Hinduism have wholeheartedly embraced Buddhism. Though Dalits enter their religion as Buddhism, they would still be considered as Scheduled Caste and will be benefited under the reservation scheme. The Centre’s directive in this regard is also available, he added.

Dalit Sangharsha Samiti state convenor Venkatagiriaiah said, information on the sub-caste is being mentioned properly. Only in the column where religion has to be mentioned it is being written as Buddhism. A majority of Dalits in the district are following this, he added.

He complained that the enumerators automatically fill the column as Hindus, once the sub-caste is mentioned as Adi Karnataka, Madiga and others. “They do not even enquire about the religion with illiterates. Hence, people themselves should volunteer and enter their religion as Buddhism, he said.