Massive Protest in Karnataka Over Remarks Against 12th-Century Saint

Yadgir (Karnataka): Thousands of people from the Koli, Kabbaliga, and Talwar communities held a huge protest in Yadgir district on Tuesday, demanding action against those accused of insulting 12th-century saint and poet Nija Sharana Ambigara Chowdaiah.

Protesters blocked roads at Subhas Circle, which brought traffic to a standstill for several hours. They alleged that some leaders from the Valmiki community had made derogatory remarks against both the saint and their communities.

The protesters urged the state government to take strict action against the leaders responsible and demanded that they be removed from the community. They also raised the issue of caste recognition, insisting that groups like Koli, Kabbaliga, Kabber, Besta, Ambiga, and related sub-castes—known by different names in different regions—should be included in the Scheduled Tribes list.

A memorandum with these demands was submitted to Deputy Commissioner Harshal Bhoyar, addressed to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

The anger stems from a recent protest by the Valmiki community over alleged fake caste certificates. During that protest, three Valmiki leaders reportedly made offensive remarks about Ambigara Chowdaiah, who is deeply respected by the Koli community. Protesters in Yadgir demanded their immediate arrest.