The Kalaburagi unit of the All India Veerashaiva Mahasabha has issued a significant appeal to Lingayats: clearly declare your religious identity as “Veerashaiva Lingayat” under the “Others” category during the ongoing socio-economic and educational survey, which commenced this past Monday.
During a press conference held in Kalaburagi, Sharankumar Modi, the district president of the Mahasabha, specifically encouraged members of the Lingayat community to register themselves either as “Veerashaiva Lingayat” within the “Others” option or, alternatively, as “Hindu” in the religion section of the survey form.
Acknowledging the lingering uncertainty surrounding this sensitive issue, Mr. Modi clarified that the Mahasabha is ultimately leaving the final decision on how to register their religious affiliation to the individual discretion of Veerashaiva Lingayat community members.
Regarding the caste column, he further instructed community members to list their caste as “Veerashaiva,” “Lingayat,” or “Veerashaiva Lingayat,” and then proceed to specify their particular sub-caste in the designated space provided.
Mr. Modi emphasized the Mahasabha’s long-standing dedication to securing independent religious status for Veerashaiva Lingayats, a demand that, despite decades of advocacy, has yet to receive consideration from the Union government.
Looking ahead, he announced that Veerashaiva Lingayats intend to formally demand a distinct religion code for their community in the upcoming 16th national census, slated to begin in October 2026. The Mahasabha plans to vigorously lobby for a specific code number, a dedicated column, or an abbreviation on the census form to officially record their religion as “Veerashaiva Lingayat,” asserting their right to be recognized as an independent religion.
In response to a query, Mr. Modi firmly stated that Veerashaivas and Lingayats are intrinsically one and the same, underscoring the ongoing collective efforts to achieve independent religious recognition for the Veerashaiva Lingayat community.