Mangalore, June 19: Pejawar Mutt pontiff Vishvesha Thirtha Swamiji clarified his stance on casteism in Hindu religion, stating that it is impossible to impossible to abolish caste system in present political and social scenario.
“We should only try to eradicate untouchability and achieve equality realizing the undeniable fact that caste system cannot be abolished in present political and social scenario,” he said.
However, he said that he has not stated anywhere that caste system was the soul of Hindu religion.
Expressing surprise over the protests held by Dalit Sangharsh Samiti against his statement on Dalits converting to Buddhism, swamiji said that individuals are free to accept a religion of their choice.
“Even the Dalits have the right to get converted as Buddhists and I have not questioned their right to do so”, he said adding that likewise every individual has the right and freedom to advise other citizens on such issues.
“I only suggested them. Accepting and rejecting my suggestion is left to their decision. I did not commit even a small amount of violation of the Indian constitution” he clarified.
He said all Dalits whom he visited during Padayathra in Dalit colony are following Hindu culture. They worship Hindu gods and goddesses (idols). There is no doubt that they are all followers of Hinduism, he said and asked what was wrong in 'bestowing' them 'special devotion deeksha' of Hinduism.
He opined that his move would help in eradicating untouchability. “Except a group of leftist Dalits, all other Dalits in general have welcomed my move wholeheartedly. I am overwhelmed by their devotion, love and intimacy” he said.
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