Members of the Lingayat community in Maharashtra are set to stage a peaceful protest on July 16 at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Chowk in Vashi, Navi Mumbai, demanding the formation of a separate Lingayat Development Corporation with a financial provision of ₹500 crore.
A formal letter regarding the peaceful nature of the protest has been submitted to the Vashi Police Station, seeking necessary support and coordination from the authorities.
The protest, being organized by the Sakal Lingayat Samaj Maharashtra, aims to highlight the long-standing demand for independent institutional and financial support for the community.
The protestors argue that several other socially and economically backward communities in the state have already been granted development corporations, and the Lingayat community deserves the same recognition and support.
The symbolic demonstration is scheduled for 5 PM and is expected to draw a crowd of 200 to 250 people, including community leaders, activists, and media representatives.
According to Siddhram Shilavant, a representative of the organization, the protest will honor the legacy of Jagatjyoti Mahatma Basaveshwar, whose vision of social justice and upliftment continues to inspire the community. "The demand for the corporation is rooted in the broader goal of securing economic and educational advancement for Lingayats across Maharashtra," said Shilavant.
The protest is being led by Mahadev Saheb, with active support from Gorakhappa Lingshetty, president of the Vashi Core Group of the Lingayat Samaj. Organizers have reiterated that the demonstration will be non-violent and conducted with full respect for public order.
