Namma Metro gone? Karnataka proposes to rename Bengaluru metro as 'Basava Metro'

Siddaramaiah linked Basavanna’s teachings to India’s constitutional values, noting that both shared the same ideals of equality, fraternity, and justice.“Dr. Ambedkar, too, reflected Basavanna’s aspirations in his Constitution. Thus, the Constitution and the Sharana culture are one and the same,” he said.

“While the Constitution’s ideals are freedom, equality, and fraternity, Basavanna, too, worked towards building a casteless, classless society based on fraternity. Therefore, Basavanna remains relevant forever.”

The senior Congress leader said his government has taken several steps to honour Basavanna’s vision. “On the day of Basava Jayanti, when I took the oath as Chief Minister, I resolved to fulfill Basavanna’s aspirations of providing equal opportunities for all. Through numerous welfare schemes and guarantees, I have ensured opportunities for the poor of all castes and religions,” he said.

Siddaramaiah also noted that the state has made it mandatory to display Basavanna’s portrait in all government offices.He further announced that the government has approved the establishment of a Vachana University dedicated to studying Basava philosophy, which will be set up next year.

If approved by the Centre, the renaming of Bengaluru’s Namma Metro—jointly operated by the state and central governments—will symbolically align the state’s flagship urban transport system with Basavanna’s enduring message of equality and inclusion.