BENGALURU: “India is on the cusp of mixing the modern knowledge with its ancient and rich tradition. While this may be the case, it’s society needs to look within on the existing feudal system to eradicate caste system,” said Nobel laureate Dalai Lama These were the words of the Lama on Tuesday, while speaking to a crowd of hundred or more people at the state level seminar on social justice and Dr B R Ambedkar , commemorating the 125th birth anniversary of India’s constitutional architect.Speaking to a rapturous audience, despite the language barrier for most people present, the Lama said there was a marked difference in the religion which the majority practice in India and the caste system in the society.“No religion speaks of discriminating against one person or the other, just because they are from the low class. All religions preach only one thing, which is love. Caste system arises from a feudal set up in India, wherein it is part of the culture and not a part of religion,” he said.The Lama was quite vocal in his observations that the caste system and oppression of the Dalits and lower rung of the society is primarily due to lack of awareness and rigid perceptions.While praising Ambedkar, for his vision and making provisions in India’s constitution for social justice, Lama said more than the constitution it is the need of the hour to change the public mindset.“I always believe that constitutions will be there, on paper, to provide social justice. But then, there needs to be a change in the public perception and mindset to implement the chapters of the constitution to eradicate caste system. And the only way forward, for this purpose, is education,” he said.Earlier, chief minister Siddaramaiah said as long as there is social injustice reservation will continue in this country, and in Karnataka “People raise questions as to why there is reservation, as promised by Ambedkar, when there was only a provision for it for 10 years. I say, till the time there is social injustice and caste bias, reservation is here to stay. The backward classes and Dalits do not have avenues for financial freedom and educational opportunities to move up in life. When this is accorded on equal footing, reservation will also go,” he said.