Dalits need adequate representation in politics and administration, says Parameshwara

To ensure all-round progress, Dalit communities need adequate representation in politics and administration, along with opportunities in education and employment, G. Parameshwara, Deputy Chief Minister and Revenue Minister, said in Davangere on Sunday.

“I feel that senior leaders from Dalit communities have not got their due. Was there anyone more capable than Basavalingappa? Who was more intellectually accomplished than K.H. Ranganath? Which portfolio did Mallikarjun Kharge not handle? Were there any allegations against him? They were not made Chief Minister or Deputy Chief Minister,” Dr. Parameshwara said.

“Since 1952, the State has witnessed several elections, and many leaders have occupied high offices, including that of Chief Minister. I became Deputy Chief Minister in 2018. Our community had to wait that long to receive high-level political representation such as the post of Deputy Chief Minister,” he said.

He was speaking after inaugurating the Merit Felicitation Programme organised by the Davanagere District Chalavadi Mahasabha at the S.S. Mallikarjun Cultural Hall, Bapuji Engineering College, to honour meritorious students who secured the highest marks during the 2025-26 academic year.

“We often speak about the need to encourage communities to strive towards all-round progress, but why did it take so many years for a person from this community to become Deputy Chief Minister? We need to reflect on this,” Dr. Parameshwara said.

“Oppressed communities must receive adequate opportunities in the State’s political and administrative systems in order to ensure comprehensive community development,’’ he said.

“I have become the Deputy Chief Minister. The reasons may be many and varied. What is important is that the Congress party has once again given me the responsibility of serving as the Deputy Chief Minister. I am serving in a responsible position in this government. I believe that I am in this position to raise my voice for the oppressed communities of this State. I will work for those who have suffered, those who have been subjected to discrimination, and those who have been neglected by society,” he said.