He said in a release that the Pejawar Mutt has never neglected the Dalits and is still ready to admit them into the folds of `savarniyas' of Hinduism. But they need to follow certain rules like Basavanna imposed on those who accepted `linga deeksha', he added.

Many Dalits are being converted into Buddhism, despite Buddhism being a part of Hinduism. It is improper to convert Dalits into Buddhism for the sole reason that it discourages caste system, he stated.

"It is better if the Dalits join Arya Samaj, propagated by Dayananda Saraswathi, than convert to Buddhism, the tenets of which are questionable," the seer suggested.

Dalits will not benefit much by joining Buddhism. Even after conversion, they have to live in Dalit colonies and their status may not change. Instead they become minorities. They can join the revolutionary Arya Samaj that challenged caste system being a part of Hinduism, he advised.

If any injustice is practiced against Dalits in villages or temples such cases should be reported to the Pejawar Mutt. The Mutt or its representative will visit the place and arbitrate, he assured adding that he would personally join their movement if it becomes inevitable. The seer will be present at Poornaprajna Vidyapeetha on Kathriguppe Main road in Bangalore at 6 pm on November 3. Anybody can meet him personally and discuss the issue, he stated.

http://www.deccanherald.com/Content/Nov32008/state2008110298502.asp