Education, rehabilitation and collective action are essential to eradicate the Devadasi system and ensure justice for former Devadasi women, speakers said at a state-level consultation in Bengaluru
Writer D. Saraswathi has said education and collective struggle are the most effective tools to eradicate the Devadasi system and secure justice for former Devadasi women. She made the remarks while inaugurating the state-level "Vimukta Sangama" consultation organised by the Vimukta Devadasi Mahila Vedike in Bengaluru.
Bengaluru: Education, social awareness and collective struggle are the strongest tools to eradicate the Devadasi system and ensure justice for former Devadasi women, noted writer D. Saraswathi said while inaugurating "Vimukta Sangama," a state-level consultation of Devadasi community activists organised by the Vimukta Devadasi Mahila Vedike at the Ashirvada Training Centre in Bengaluru.
Addressing activists, social workers and representatives of various organisations, Saraswathi said the continued existence of the Devadasi system reflects deep-rooted caste discrimination, social inequality and religious superstition. She stressed that meaningful change is possible only through quality education, organised movements and equal access to opportunities.
"Education and collective struggle are the only effective means to eradicate the Devadasi system and secure justice for former Devadasi women," D. Saraswathi said.
Education Essential to End the Devadasi System
Saraswathi said those occupying positions of authority have largely failed to understand the discrimination, humiliation and hardships experienced by former Devadasi women. She alleged that caste-based prejudice and social discrimination continue to influence governance, preventing the delivery of meaningful social justice.
According to her, the Devadasi system continues to survive because of entrenched caste hierarchy, religious superstition and unequal power structures.
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She said ignorance and fear have long been used to exploit vulnerable women and that education remains the most effective way to break this cycle.
Call for Rehabilitation and Equal Welfare
Highlighting the challenges faced by former Devadasi women, Saraswathi said even progressive organisations, Dalit movements and women's groups have not adequately prioritised their concerns.
She called upon the government to ensure:
- Quality education for former Devadasi women and their children
- Land ownership rights
- Dignified rehabilitation
- Sustainable employment opportunities
- Equal access to welfare schemes
- Social and economic empowerment
She said these measures are necessary to help affected families rebuild their lives with dignity.
"Former Devadasi women deserve equal opportunities, education, rehabilitation and social justice," she said.
Demand for Transparent Survey of Former Devadasi Women
Speaking at the consultation, R. Manasaiah, founder of CPI(ML) Red Star, questioned the reduction in the official number of former Devadasi women during the recent resurvey process.
He said the count had reportedly declined from 46,000 to 23,000, and urged the Karnataka government to conduct a transparent and comprehensive survey to identify every eligible beneficiary. He also demanded land rights and complete rehabilitation measures for all affected families.
Activists Seek Better Welfare Measures
Devadasi community activist Chandalinga Kalalabandi urged the government to strengthen welfare initiatives for former Devadasi women.
Among the key demands raised were:
- Increase in the monthly honorarium
- Housing and house sites
- Free education and scholarships for children
- Employment preference
- Health insurance coverage
- Free medical treatment
- Interest-free loans for self-employment
- Skill development programmes
- Strict implementation of laws to eliminate the Devadasi system
He said long-term rehabilitation requires both financial support and sustainable livelihood opportunities.
State-Level Consultation Brings Together Social Organisations
The inaugural session began with an introductory address by G.S. Sharanu, Organising Secretary of the Vimukta Devadasi Mahila Vedike. More than 15 organisations participated in the first day of the two-day consultation.
Among those present were Prof. Y.J. Rajendra, National Vice-President of PUCL, poet Danappa Nilogal, Padiyamma Kyadagumpi, Mahananda Doddamani, Ratna Maski, Pampapathi Ballari, N.R. Netravathi, Shobha, Savitri Talageri, Virupamma, K. Renuka, Mokshamma, Akkamma Hanumesh, Shashikala Hiresindogi, Mailavva, Renuka, Ramesh Kolur, Nirupadi Kandakuru, Channabasava, and representatives of several social organisations.
The consultation focused on strengthening policy advocacy, expanding educational opportunities and ensuring comprehensive rehabilitation for former Devadasi women across Karnataka.
