http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/mysore/Swami-to-stop-Dalit-religious-conversion/articleshow/6447694.cms
Swami to stop Dalit religious conversion TNN, Aug 27, 2010, 09.55pm IST MYSORE: Seeking to curb religious conversion and encourage Dalit communities to join the mainstream, Pejawar mutt seer Vishwesha Teertha Swami on Friday visited a Dalit colony and promised to champion their cause. The seer told them he will observe a fast and offered them deeksha as a weapon to stop conversion. The seer asked them to quit alcoholism, but remained silent on their food habits stating non-vegetarianism is part of their culture. Buoyed by the seer's promise, the Dalit families said they would follow the seer's words. This is the first time a religious leader has visited their houses. The seer's visit aimed at ensuring social harmony and protecting Hindu Dharma. When the seer, who will be in the city for over a fortnight performing Chaturmasya vratha, arrived there was celebration at the Devaraj Urs colony, predominated by pourakarmikas. The colony was swept clean and decorated. The residents lined up to receive the seer and offered floral tributes as he came. The seer visited a couple of houses, lit lamps and offered prayers before he went to Pattadalamma temple where he addressed them calling Hindus to be united. According to him, religious conversions normally target Dalits as they rae alienated from Hindus. Hindus should be united, he said decrying untouchability. He offered to give them deeksha even as he advised them to quit alcohol. He asked them to contact him in case they have any message or demand to be heard by the state government. "I will approach the elected representatives," he told them.
