Mysuru: Reiterating that true democracy depends on the equitable distribution of both wealth and power, chief minister Siddaramaiah on Wednesday reaffirmed the govt’s firm commitment to social justice and inclusive governance.He was addressing a gathering after inaugurating the Sri Shivayogi Siddharameshwar Jayanti celebrations at Kalamandira. The event was jointly organised by the district administration, the department of Kannada and culture, the city corporation, and the Jayanti Committee.The CM said the aspirations of marginalised communities would persist until an egalitarian society is fully realised. Stressing the philosophy of “Sarvarigu Samabalu, Sarvarigu Samapalu” (equal life and equal share for all), he underlined that governance must ensure equal access to resources and decision-making.He noted that social reformers throughout history have consistently advocated the dismantling of class hierarchies through rational thinking and scientific temper. However, he added that the caste system continues to pose a significant challenge.On Basava Jayanti, I took office as chief minister on May 13, 2013. I believed in social justice as taught by Basavanna. Political freedom stands on the foundation of economic and social freedom. Only through education can social and economic empowerment be achieved, he said. Outlining key initiatives, Siddaramaiah pointed to the govt’s flagship guarantee schemes, which benefit nearly seven crore people across Karnataka without discrimination. He said these programmes reflect the administration’s commitment to inclusive welfare. He also noted that discussions on the Justice Nagamohan Das report and internal reservation are ongoing.Highlighting empowerment as the cornerstone of social justice, Siddaramaiah stressed the need to provide equal opportunities for historically disadvantaged communities. Drawing inspiration from national leader BR Ambedkar, he said political freedom alone is insufficient without social and economic equality. Education, he added, is the most effective tool for empowerment, enabling individuals to assert their rights and improve their socio-economic status.Reflecting on the teachings of Siddharameshwar, he urged citizens to embrace the principles of Kayaka (dignity of labour) and Dasoha (sharing of wealth). He described the saint as a visionary who practised these ideals, making his message relevant even today.Minister for Backward Classes welfare and Kannada and culture Shivaraj Tangadagi credited the CM’s leadership for ensuring that welfare measures reach the most marginalised, particularly within the Bhovi community. He encouraged youth from the Bhovi and Vaddar communities to focus on education and entrepreneurship, noting that govt jobs alone cannot meet employment demands.The state-level Siddharameshwar Award for 2025–26 was conferred on noted writer SG Siddaramaiah. Immadi Siddharameshwar Swami highlighted the saint’s contributions to public welfare and urged leaders to emulate his vision.The programme also included the release of the book ‘Siddarama Bellikirana’ and was attended by ministers, legislators and senior officials.
