Education Key to Building Equality and National Unity, Says CM Siddaramaiah

Bengaluru: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah emphasized that education is the strongest tool for shaping one’s personality and eliminating social inequality. He said every citizen, irrespective of caste or religion, must be educated to lead a life of dignity and self-respect.

Speaking at the inauguration of the Darul Quran Campus organized by the JIU Group of Institutions in Bengaluru, the Chief Minister recalled Dr. B. R. Ambedkar’s message that education is essential to break free from social barriers. “Every Muslim should also pursue education. Only through learning can we build a society without discrimination,” he added.

Siddaramaiah noted that equal access to education became possible only after the adoption of the Constitution. “The government continues to give priority to education by providing funds and establishing residential schools, especially to support Muslim students at the primary and higher primary levels,” he said.

Highlighting the importance of harmony, the Chief Minister said the Constitution teaches citizens to respect all religions and live together peacefully. “No religion spreads hatred. Hate politics must be avoided, as hatred can never win hearts. Education helps people understand this truth,” he stated.

The Chief Minister also mentioned the state’s collaboration with Azim Premji’s Wipro Foundation to provide nutritious meals, including eggs, ragi malt, milk, and mid-day meals to schoolchildren for six days a week. He thanked Premji for his contribution to education and welfare programs, including scholarships for female college students.

Speaking about welfare initiatives, Siddaramaiah said the government has launched five guarantee schemes, including Shakti and Gruha Lakshmi, which aim to empower women. He expressed satisfaction that more girls from the Muslim community are now pursuing higher education a change from earlier times when many were denied such opportunities.

“The guarantee schemes are designed to promote equality, which is the core principle of our Constitution. Only those who understand the Constitution can truly serve society,” he remarked.

Concluding his address, Siddaramaiah urged parents to ensure their children receive an education. “No child should remain uneducated. An educated society can build a prosperous and just India,” he said.

“We are all Indians first before being Hindus, Muslims, or Christians. Let us unite as Indians, work together for the nation, and replace hatred with love and harmony,” the Chief Minister concluded.