Social Peace Impossible Without Equality: Siddaramaiah

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stated that building a society where every human loves every other human is the greatest need of the hour. He emphasized that the struggle against forces sowing the seeds of hatred in society is the collective responsibility of all.

He was addressing the concluding ceremony of the 1066th birth anniversary celebrations of Adi Jagadguru Shri Shivaratreeshwara Shivayogi, founder of Sri Mattsotra Jagadguru Shri Veerashasana Mahasamsthana, held in Malavalli today.

The Chief Minister said that while society comprises various castes and religions, it is precisely this differentiation that is the root of inequality. True peace in society cannot be established until inequality is eradicated. The Sharanas, including Basavanna, continuously fought for the creation of an egalitarian and humane society, yet the caste system has not been completely eliminated even today.

Quoting the poet Kuvempu, he said that “the garden of universal knowledge and peace” (Sarvajnanaga Shanti ka Bagh) can only be realized when a humane and love-based society is formed. No religion teaches hatred; all preach love—this is our civilization.

The Chief Minister stressed that breaking free from the stagnant caste system requires social and economic empowerment. The message of the Sharanas was to build a society free from superstitions, caste, and class divisions. Educated individuals must necessarily develop scientific and rational thinking. The real success in life lies in making it meaningful between birth and death.

He noted that at the time of the adoption of the Constitution, society was riddled with severe contradictions. This situation will change only when we become sensitive to social issues. Referring to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the Chief Minister said that if inequality persists, freedom will become meaningless. Those suffering from inequality can harm the democratic structure; therefore, equality is essential for the stability of democracy.

Source: Haqeeqat Time (Translate in english)