MLA Kamath Demands PF, ESI, and Increased Stipend for Daivaradhane Communities

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Mangaluru : MLA Vedavyas Kamath, speaking during the ongoing legislative session in Belagavi, strongly urged the state government to immediately address the severe distress and financial instability faced by various Tulu Nadu communities involved in Daivaradhane (spirit worship). The MLA highlighted the socio-economic challenges confronting these traditional service providers, demanding comprehensive welfare measures that recognize their unique role in cultural preservation.

Kamath stressed that the government must adopt a highly sensitive and accurate approach in identifying these communities, insisting that they be referred to by their specific traditional names rather than being broadly categorized as ‘artists,’ ‘writers,’ or ‘fine arts’ professionals. He delineated the diverse groups, including Daiva Nartakas from the Scheduled Caste communities like Nalike, Parava, Pampada, and Panara, as well as Daiva Patris from the Mundala, Adi Dravida, Mugera, Bakuda, and Samagara groups. He also mentioned Rajan Daiva Patris, who hail from Jain, Bunt, and Billava communities, along with the numerous other classes involved in Daiva Chakari (traditional service).

The legislator brought to the Assembly’s attention the insufficient support provided by the state, noting that while the government stated only three individuals from the Nalike community are receiving a pension, the total number of people engaged in Daivaradhane service in the district is substantially higher. He pointed out the critical lack of social security, confirming that these dedicated individuals have no access to basic benefits like PF (Provident Fund) or ESI (Employees’ State Insurance). Furthermore, he demanded that the monthly stipend for all eligible Daivaradhakas be increased to ₹2,500.

Finally, Kamath called for a revision of the current eligibility criteria, noting that many people outside the usual bracket, including those below 40 and above 58, are actively involved in the tradition and require support. He also urged the government to resolve the bureaucratic discrimination and difficulties faced by individuals who have married and moved from other states while trying to obtain necessary caste certificates to access benefits, demanding that all such issues be resolved immediately.