BC-Dalit seers’ federation condemns Rajanna’s ouster

Bengaluru: Strongly condemning the removal of K N Rajanna from the state cabinet, the Federation of Backward-Dalit Pontiffs on Thursday warned that the ruling Congress may face a significant blow in future elections if the Madhugiri MLA was not reinstated immediately.

In a statement signed by Valmiki Gurupeeth seer Prasannanandapuri Swami, the Federation appealed to AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, KPCC President D K Shivakumar, and the party’s national leadership to resolve the issue at the earliest.

The statement said Rajanna’s victory from a general constituency shows his popularity and contribution. His removal has hurt Dalit and backward communities and is viewed as an injustice.

The Federation claimed over 45 lakh members of Bedas, Valmiki, and Nayaka communities see Rajanna as their leader. His exclusion triggered widespread outrage with statewide protests.

The federation also noted that the Congress had won 14 of 15 ST-reserved seats in 2023, while Rajanna won from a general seat. His removal has angered SC, ST, BC, and minority communities statewide.