A major controversy has erupted in Karnataka after a retired Bombay High Court judge, Justice B.G. Kolse Patil, allegedly made derogatory and inflammatory remarks against Hinduism and the Brahmin community during a public event. The remarks were delivered during a Sufi-Saints Convention in Basavakalyan, Bidar district, an event organized by Legislative Council Chief Whip, Saleem Ahmed.
The controversial statements were made late last night at the massive convention. While criticizing the RSS, Justice Kolse Patil launched into an attack on the very nature of the Hindu identity. He asserted, "Hindu is not a religion at all; it is a Persian word, and its meaning contains an abuse." He emphatically claimed that "there is no such thing as a Hindu religion."
Justice Kolse Patil attributed the creation of this identity to the Brahmin community. He controversially stated that "Brahmins, through their intellect, have made us slaves and created this thing called the Hindu religion." He reiterated that "Hindu religion is not a religion at all," challenging the fundamental religious identity of millions of people.
Furthermore, he urged the religious leaders present at the convention—the Sufi saints and Maulvis—to take up the responsibility of educating the masses about this alternative historical narrative. He stressed that they should be the ones to "convey this history" to the people.
The retired judge then turned his attention to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). He placed the blame for all major conflicts and riots in the country squarely on the organization. He alleged that the RSS was responsible for all riots, including the Sikh riots, stating that "RSS is the root cause of all problems."
He also addressed the perceived fear surrounding the organization, claiming that many people are afraid to speak out against the RSS. He urged the public not to be afraid to speak against the RSS and Brahmins, claiming, "They are only one percent of the population in the country."
In an additional remark deemed deeply offensive, Justice Kolse Patil reportedly called Brahmins "cowards" (hedaru pukkalaru). These sweeping and derogatory statements against a specific community and a major religion have drawn widespread condemnation.
The entire episode, stemming from an event meant to foster peace and understanding (Sufi-Saints Convention), has instead led to a massive political and social fallout, with the controversial comments by the retired Bombay High Court judge, B.G. Kolse Patil, generating fierce debates and demands for action.
