Fri Dec 13 07:54:14 UTC 2024: ## Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Rejects Panchamasali Plea, Cites Commission Report
**Belagavi, Karnataka, December 13, 2024** – Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has urged the Lingayat Panchamasali community to approach the Permanent Backward Classes Commission regarding their demand for inclusion in the 2A category of backward classes. He cited a report from the commission’s chairman, Jayaprakash Hegde, issued during the BJP’s tenure, recommending against changes to the existing 2A and 2B categories. Siddaramaiah emphasized the need to follow legal procedures and warned against unlawful protests, stating that the government would not tolerate violence.
The Chief Minister questioned the timing of the current protests, noting the absence of similar demonstrations during the BJP government’s term, despite the commission’s report. He also pointed to a BJP government affidavit to the Supreme Court opposing the abolition of 4% Muslim reservation under 2B, further highlighting inconsistencies in the BJP’s stance.
Siddaramaiah responded to criticism from Basava Jaya Mrutyunjaya Swami, who labeled him “heartless,” by stating that the law applies equally to all, regardless of social standing. He also refuted allegations of police misconduct during recent protests, presenting counter-evidence of protestors’ actions. The Chief Minister claimed to possess photographic evidence showing protestors throwing stones and pushing barricades, questioning the seer’s presence in the road and the injuries sustained by over 20 police officers.
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