Siddaramaiah writes to Modi, seeking Bharat Ratna for Siddaganga seer

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Thursday urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to confer Bharat Ratna, the country's highest civilian honour, on Siddaganga seer Shivakumara Swami.

Highlighting the seer's achievements over the years, Siddaramaiah, in a letter to the prime minister, said even at the age of 110 years, the seer continued to render "exemplary service" to the community at large and the poor in particular.

Siddaramaiah's letter comes days after BJP leader and former chief minister S M Krishna made the same appeal to Modi through a letter.

The Mutt and Siddaganga Education Society, under the stewardship of Shivakumara Swami, is serving in the areas of philanthropy, education and spiritual activities. "The Society established by the Swami has more than 130 educational institutions mostly in rural and semi-urban areas. These institutions are providing education ranging from Sanskrit studies to engineering and technology, thus making a rich contribution to the educational development of the people. The Mutt also hosts more than 9,000 children who are provided free food, shelter and education."

Siddaramaiah said the seer, through his selfless devotion, had created a band of alumni who were making "enormous contribution to the society in various walks of life".

"The seer's service to the people deserves recognition at the highest level through the award of Bharat Ratna. I therefore humbly request you to confer the title of Bharat Ratna to the seer who is referred to as the 'Walking God' by legions of his devotees and admirers," his letter states.