Belthangady: RSS leader Dr Kalladka Prabhakar Bhat has run into yet another trouble by making a derogatory statement against the impersonators of Daivas (demi-dieties) during an event recently held at Kairangala
Following this, Belthangady Taluk Nalike Samaja Seva Sangha recent past president Sesappa Nalike has demanded arrest of the leader under the Dalit Atrocities Act of 1989, failing which, he warned of intense protests bringing together various dalit organisations.
The Nalike community of the region plays an integral role in the entire demi-deity worship culture of the coastal belt. The members of this community support the possession cult of the region and for a few hours, when the man from the community stands as an impersonator, he is exalted to the position of being the deity himself. When such is the case, Dr Bhat had made a statement recently that ‘Bhoothakattuvavanige thale sari illa’ (the impersonators are insane).
Addressing a news conference on these lines, Sesappa said that the RSS would on one hand say that we are all one, but on the other hand leave no opportunity to suppress the dalits. “The statement of Dr Bhat only holds mirror to the mentality of the RSS,” he said adding that it is not the impersonators who are insane, but it is Dr Bhat who is insane.
“Not just that, he is also a criminal who has several cases lodged against him. He has no moral right to talk about the community that performs Bhootha Kola. We are secular people. When we perform our duty as impersonators, each and every devotee is equal for us. We are the true ambassadors of Tuluva culture,” Sesappa said.
Attacking Dr Bhat for his recent statement that cleansing rituals must be performed on all temples visited by Minister UT Khader, Sesappa said that there were several Muslims who visited Sr Rama Mandir, led by Dr Bhat.
“He should first cleanse the centre that is run by him,” he said adding that action needs to be initiated against Dr Bhat to show him his place. President Prabhakar Shanthikodi and other office-bearers were present.
