Former Karnataka Minister K.S. Eshwarappa has come forward to stoutly defend Kaneri Mutt seer Adrushya Kadasiddeshwar Swami. Eshwarappa argued that the seer’s controversial remarks were a direct reaction to earlier statements by other religious leaders who had discouraged devotees from visiting temples.
During a press conference held in Shivamogga on Saturday, Mr. Eshwarappa highlighted the Kaneri Mutt seer’s extensive contributions to society. He strongly condemned the Vijayapura district administration’s decision to ban the seer’s entry into the district, calling it baseless. “Even State Cabinet Minister Shivanand Patil has openly criticized this ban on the seer,” Eshwarappa added.
Eshwarappa clarified that the Kaneri Mutt seer’s comments were merely a response to the provocations from other seers. He accused these religious leaders of demeaning the Hindu faith by advising the public against temple visits. “It is true, as Basavanna once said, that the human body itself is a temple. However, he never discouraged people from visiting physical temples. Yet, these seers preached the opposite. Such misguided comments compelled the Kaneri Mutt seer to respond sharply. I myself would have made equally strong, if not stronger, statements,” Eshwarappa declared. He further announced his intention to travel to Vijayapura on October 24 to participate in a protest against the ban.
The Vijayapura district administration imposed the ban on the Kaneri Mutt seer following widespread protests triggered by his statements. These statements were perceived as a critique of Lingayat seers who were spearheading a State-wide ‘Basava Samskruti Abhiyan’ campaign.
Security Detail Removed
In a separate development, Mr. Eshwarappa confirmed that the State government had withdrawn his police escort. “Indeed, my security was removed yesterday. I don’t understand the rationale behind this decision – nor did I inquire when it was provided, nor when it was taken away,” he stated, seemingly unfazed.