Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has drawn sharp reactions after linking religious conversions to caste inequality in Hindu society. Speaking at an event on Sunday, he argued that the absence of equality and opportunity within Hinduism pushes many people from marginalized communities to adopt other faiths.
“If Hindu society had complete equality, why would anyone feel the need to convert?” the Chief Minister asked, adding that discrimination and social exclusion are the main reasons people move away from their religion of birth.
The remarks have sparked a political storm. The BJP accused Siddaramaiah of insulting Hinduism and of encouraging conversions through his statements. Party leaders claimed the Chief Minister was using caste as a political tool, especially as the state government prepares to act on the recently conducted caste and socio-educational survey.
Defending his stance, Siddaramaiah said he was highlighting historical injustices that still affect large sections of society. He stressed that conversions are not caused by external influence alone but often by lived experiences of untouchability, lack of dignity, and social discrimination. “The record of caste even after conversion is not to promote religion change but to show existing realities,” he clarified.
The BJP, however, has linked the remark to the inclusion of certain Christian communities in the caste survey, alleging that the government is legitimizing conversions for political benefit. Leaders said the Congress administration was undermining Hindu unity while ignoring inequalities that may exist in other religions.
Observers believe the issue will become central to Karnataka’s political debate, with caste and conversion narratives expected to dominate in the run-up to the 2025 elections. For now, Siddaramaiah’s comments have reignited the old debate on whether religious conversion is a matter of faith—or a response to systemic inequality.
