The Karnataka state government approved a distinct entity for Lingayat community. This decision will have a strong impact on the coming elections as Lingayat is a strong community in terms of numbers. After three hours of marathon discussion, the Karnataka government took this decision. The Lingayat seers met Karnataka Chief Minister Mr Siddaramaiah and requested him to execute the report prepared by a committee that discussed having a separate legal status for this religious community. The Lingayat community is led by Mr. Gadag-based Tontadarya Mutt's Siddalinga Swami, met the Chief Minister Mr. Siddaramaiah on last Sunday at his residence. The decision