Vijayapura ban followed by Bagalkote entry restriction for Kaneri seer: Notice issued to vacate math
Vijayapura: In the wake of a controversial speech allegedly made against Lingayat seers during a cultural event in Maharashtra, the Bagalkot district administration has issued a formal notice barring Kaneri Mutt’s Kad Siddheshwar Swamiji from entering the district.
The directive, issued by District Collector M. Sangappa, also prohibits the seer from visiting Chikkalugundi Mallikarjuna Mutt in Bilagi taluk. The notice was personally delivered by Tahsildar Vinod to the seer at the Chikkalugundi Mutt, instructing him to vacate the premises and return to his original location.
Authorities cited potential threats to law and order as the reason for the restriction, sparking widespread anger among devotees who have accused the government of suppressing religious freedom.
The seer was originally scheduled to attend the punyathithi of Samartha Sadguru Shri Siddarameshwar Maharaj in Basavanabagewadi on October 16 and 17. However, following similar restrictions imposed by the Vijayapura district administration, he remained at Chikkalugundi Mutt.
Over the past two days, several dignitaries, including Chitradurga MP Govind Karjol, visited the seer to express solidarity. The controversy stems from remarks made by the Kaneri seer during the Basava Cultural Festival in Maharashtra, which were perceived as derogatory toward Lingayat religious leaders.
The comments went viral, prompting administrative action in both Vijayapura and Bagalkot districts. The Kalaburagi circuit bench of the Karnataka High Court upheld the Vijayapura district’s entry ban earlier this week.
The Bagalkot order includes details from the High Court ruling and reiterates that the seer must leave the district immediately. The move has intensified tensions between religious groups and the administration, with calls for a more balanced and respectful resolution to the dispute. Further legal and political developments are expected in the coming days.
