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PM Modi’s Heartfelt Tribute to SM Krishna: A ‘Remarkable Leader’

December 10, 2024, 10:44 am

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences after the passing of former Karnataka Chief Minister SM Krishna. He passed away at 92 in Bengaluru on Tuesday morning. PM Modi remembered Krishna as a “remarkable leader, prolific reader, and thinker.”

Tribute to SM Krishna

PM Modi shared his thoughts on X (formerly Twitter). He said, “Shri SM Krishna Ji was a remarkable leader, admired by people from all walks of life. He always worked tirelessly to improve the lives of others. He is fondly remembered for his tenure as Karnataka’s chief minister, particularly for his focus on infrastructural development. Shri SM Krishna Ji was also a prolific reader and thinker.”

Shri SM Krishna Ji was a remarkable leader, admired by people from all walks of life. He always worked tirelessly to improve the lives of others. He is fondly remembered for his tenure as Karnataka’s Chief Minister, particularly for his focus on infrastructural development. Shri… pic.twitter.com/Wkw25mReeO

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 10, 2024

Cherished Memories

PM Modi also recalled his personal interactions with Krishna. He said, “I have had many opportunities to interact with Shri SM Krishna Ji over the years, and I will always cherish those interactions. I am deeply saddened by his passing. My condolences to his family and admirers.”

Karnataka Declares Mourning

The Karnataka state government declared three days of mourning in honor of SM Krishna. His last rites will be conducted with full state honors. During this period, no functions or celebrations will take place.

Siddaramaiah’s Tribute

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed his sorrow. He said, “Saddened by the demise of former chief minister Shri SM Krishna. His unparalleled contributions as a union minister, chief minister, and leader have left an indelible mark.”

Siddaramaiah praised Krishna’s leadership in transforming the IT-BT sector. He said, “Karnataka will forever remain indebted to him, especially for his visionary leadership in transforming the IT-BT sector during his tenure as chief minister.”

Saddened by the demise of former Chief Minister Shri S.M. Krishna. His unparalleled contributions as a Union Minister, Chief Minister, and leader have left an indelible mark. Karnataka will forever remain indebted to him, especially for his visionary leadership in transforming… pic.twitter.com/r2N3tt9ngA

— Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) December 10, 2024

Inspiration for Politicians

Siddaramaiah also admired Krishna’s disciplined life and kind nature. He called Krishna “an inspiration for aspiring politicians.” He concluded by offering his condolences: “I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and admirers in this moment of grief. May his soul rest in peace.”

SM Krishna’s Legacy

SM Krishna was born on May 1, 1932, in Somanahalli, Mandya district, Karnataka. He is survived by his wife Prema and two daughters, Shambhavi and Malavika. He began his political career in 1962 and served as Karnataka’s 16th chief minister from 1999 to 2004.

Krishna also held important national roles, including serving as the Governor of Maharashtra and as India’s External Affairs Minister from 2009 to 2012. In January 2022, he retired from active politics, citing his age as the reason.

MUDA Scam: Karnataka BJP President Accuses Siddaramaiah Govt of Corruption

October 7, 2024, 2:03 pm

In a sharp critique of the Congress-led Karnataka government, BJP state president Vijayendra on Monday accused Chief Minister Siddaramaiah of corruption, alleging that anarchy has been created in the state. Vijayendra’s remarks came after meeting with Congress leader and PWD Minister Satish Jarkiholi, demanding a transparent investigation into the Mysore Urban Development Authority (MUDA) scam.

“We are demanding a transparent investigation into the MUDA scam. The Siddaramaiah government is mired in corruption, and the state has created anarchy. The MUDA and Valmiki scams should be thoroughly investigated. The Chief Minister’s actions have shown that wrongdoing has occurred,” Vijayendra stated.

In addition to addressing the MUDA scam, Vijayendra raised concerns about two tolls on a state highway causing difficulties for farmers and students. “Farmers are inconvenienced, and it is difficult for children to go to school. We have requested the PWD Minister to shift the tolls, and he has positively assured us that a meeting with officials will be called soon,” Vijayendra said.

Jarkiholi Refutes BJP’s Claims of Government Collapse

In response to BJP’s assertions that the Congress government is on the verge of collapse, PWD Minister Satish Jarkiholi dismissed the claims, affirming that Siddaramaiah would remain in office. “There is no question of Siddaramaiah resigning. The BJP keeps alleging that our government will fall, but there is no chance of that happening,” Jarkiholi countered.

Siddaramaiah Defends His Government Amid MUDA Scam Allegations

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who has faced mounting pressure over the MUDA land scam, last week reiterated his refusal to step down. He emphasized that his government enjoys the support of the people and will complete its full five-year term.

“I became Chief Minister with the blessings of the people. No one can do anything until we have their support. We will continue to govern for five years,” Siddaramaiah stated. He further expressed confidence in his integrity, saying, “I believe in the courts and my conscience. As Gandhiji said, the court of conscience is the highest of all courts.”

The MUDA land allotment scam gained attention when the Enforcement Directorate (ED) booked Siddaramaiah for money laundering related to the alleged illegal allotment of 14 sites worth Rs 56 crore to his wife, Parvathi. Following a court order, the Mysuru Lokayukta officially launched an inquiry into the case on September 27. In response, Parvathi Siddaramaiah offered to surrender the 14 plots to the MUDA Commissioner. The investigation continues to unfold as political tensions rise in Karnataka.

Minister Pralhad Joshi Demands Karnataka CM’s Resignation, Calls for CBI Investigation in MUDA Scam

September 24, 2024, 2:54 pm

Following the Karnataka High Court‘s dismissal of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s petition challenging the Governor’s approval for an investigation into the alleged Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) scam, Union Minister Pralhad Joshi has called for a CBI inquiry. He also urged Siddaramaiah to step down as the Chief Minister to allow for an impartial investigation.

Joshi pointed to the illegal allocation of over 500 to 1000 sites, many of which were distributed in recent months, as grounds for a thorough investigation. “This is a huge scam, and it cannot happen without political influence. Therefore, I strongly urge the Chief Minister to resign,” Joshi stated, calling the High Court’s ruling an “eye-opener” for the Congress-led government.

Echoing similar sentiments, BJP MP Jagadish Shettar insisted that Siddaramaiah resign on moral grounds, citing the involvement of both the CM and his wife in the alleged scam. “An impartial investigation must begin, and for that, the Chief Minister must step down,” Shettar added.

BJP state president BY Vijayendra also reiterated the party’s stance, asserting that the Congress government has been mired in corruption. “The High Court’s decision is clear. All are equal before the law, and Siddaramaiah should resign,” Vijayendra said.

In response, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar dismissed the resignation calls, labeling them a political conspiracy by the BJP. “The Chief Minister has done nothing wrong, and this is an attempt to create problems for opposition leaders,” Shivakumar said. He emphasized that the Congress stands firmly behind Siddaramaiah and respects the legal process.

The Karnataka High Court’s dismissal of Siddaramaiah’s petition clears the way for an investigation into the alleged illegalities surrounding the allotment of 14 sites by MUDA to the Chief Minister’s wife. Justice Nagaprasanna, who delivered the verdict, stated that the Governor’s approval for prosecution does not suffer from non-application of mind.

MUDA Scam: Cong Announces Statewide Protest Against Governor’s Nod to Prosecute CM

August 18, 2024, 4:15 pm

The Karnataka Congress has announced a statewide protest on Monday in response to Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot’s approval of prosecution against Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in connection with the alleged Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) scam. Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar confirmed that party workers and leaders will hold demonstrations at district centers across the state.

“On Monday, a state-wide protest will be organized against the Governor’s decision to grant prosecution permission against the Chief Minister. Our protest will be peaceful and based on Gandhian principles, though we remain cautious of potential disruptions by miscreants,” Shivakumar stated.

He added that Congress has already briefed All India Congress Committee (AICC) President Mallikarjun Kharge about the situation and ongoing developments. However, when asked about extending the protests nationwide, Shivakumar said that a decision on that would be made by the AICC.

Addressing the demands for CM Siddaramaiah’s resignation, Shivakumar dismissed the possibility, describing the situation as a “conspiracy” by the BJP to destabilize the Congress government in Karnataka by misusing the Governor’s office.

“There is no question of the CM resigning. The entire party and the government are firmly behind him. The INDIA alliance has also expressed its solidarity with the CM. These are false allegations, and we will fight them legally and politically,” Shivakumar asserted during a press conference at Vidhana Soudha alongside his Cabinet colleagues.

Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot granted permission for prosecution under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, and Section 218 of the Bharatiya Nagarika Suraksha Samhita, 2023. The order, issued by the Governor’s Secretariat on August 17, followed a complaint by social activist Snehamayi Krishna, alleging that CM Siddaramaiah and nine others forged documents to claim compensation from the MUDA.

The protests by Congress mark a significant escalation in the political tension surrounding the allegations, with the party firmly backing Siddaramaiah amidst calls from the opposition for his resignation.

TN Government to Convene All-Party Meeting Over Cauvery Row on July 16

July 15, 2024, 2:10 pm

The Tamil Nadu government has strongly criticized Karnataka’s decision to reduce the release of Cauvery water and will hold an all-party meeting on Tuesday to address the issue. The meeting, chaired by Water Resources Minister Duraimurugan, is scheduled for 11 am at the State Secretariat.

On July 14, Karnataka decided to release only 8,000 cusecs of water from the Cauvery River to Tamil Nadu, instead of the previously agreed one thousand million cubic metres. This decision followed an all-party meeting in Bengaluru, where various leaders discussed issues related to the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee (CWRC).

The Bengaluru meeting was attended by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Deputy CM DK Shivakumar, BJP leader CT Ravi, and other prominent state leaders. After the meeting, CM Siddaramaiah stated, “Today an all-party meeting took place with Deputy CM DK Shivakumar, BJP leaders, and Mysuru basin leaders. They agreed that we should not release water and should appeal before CWMA. Legal team member Mohan Katarki suggested releasing 8,000 cusecs of water, with the possibility of increasing the amount if it rains.”

In a press conference, CM Siddaramaiah further explained, “The collective opinion is that we can’t release 1 TMC of water to Tamil Nadu every day. We have decided to appeal before the court and will release 8,000 cusecs daily to Tamil Nadu.”

Earlier this year, Bengaluru faced a severe water crisis, affecting 7,082 villages across Karnataka and 1,193 wards, including those in Bengaluru Urban District. A government assessment on February 10 highlighted the vulnerability of these areas to a drinking water crisis. The report identified Tumakuru district and wards in Uttara Kannada as facing a severe water shortage.

The dispute over the Cauvery water sharing has been a longstanding issue between the Karnataka and Tamil Nadu governments, with the river being a crucial resource for both states.

‘Black Magic Being Performed Against Me And CM Siddaramaiah’: DK Shivakumar

May 31, 2024, 12:14 pm

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar claimed on Thursday that political rivals are engaging in black magic through ‘Aghoris’ and ‘tantriks’ at a temple in Kerala, targeting him and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. He suggested that this was an attempt to undermine their government.

Speaking to reporters, Mr. Shivakumar asserted he had credible information that a yagya (special worship) was being performed by ‘Aghoris’ in a secluded area near the Rajarajeshwari temple in Kerala. “The ritual is underway and is being conducted against me, the CM, and to destabilize the Congress government,” he reiterated.

He explained that the yagya, known as ‘Raja Kantaka’ and ‘Marana Mohana Stambhana’ yagyas, is intended to eliminate enemies. Participants in the ritual had informed him about this, Mr. Shivakumar stated.

According to him, through the Aghoris, 21 red goats, three buffaloes, 21 black sheep, and five pigs are being sacrificed for black magic.

When questioned if BJP or JD-S leaders were behind this ritual, Mr. Shivakumar insisted that politicians from Karnataka were responsible. “I know who is conducting this ritual. Let them continue their efforts; I don’t bother. It is left to their belief system. Despite their attempts and experiments to cause harm, the force which I believe in will protect me,” he said.

When asked if he would perform a counter-ritual, Mr. Shivakumar replied, “I pray to God for a minute every day before going to work.”

Pressed to identify those responsible for the ritual, Mr. Shivakumar suggested the media should investigate rather than asking him to name names.

“Why would I bother about it? It is their attempt. It is their belief. No matter what they attempt, the forces we believe in will protect us,” he added.

Mr. Shivakumar announced a legislators’ meeting in Bengaluru on June 2, inviting all MLCs, MLAs, and MPs. The meeting would address party matters and the MLC election, he said.

Regarding the MLC election, Mr. Shivakumar stated, “Among 300 aspirants, 65 have been shortlisted based on various criteria. The high command sought our opinion, and we have provided it.”

He mentioned a commitment to give Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s son, Dr. Yathindra, an MLC post, as he vacated his MLA seat for his father. Prominent leaders, including those defeated in the election, have sought tickets. Aspirants who sacrificed their seats will also be considered. Representation will be given to regions like Kalyana Karnataka, Mumbai Karnataka, coastal, and central Karnataka. It is not possible to give priority only to Bengaluru, he added.

After Rahul Gandhi Takes Cognizance In Obscene Video Case; Karnataka CM Holds Emergency Meeting

May 4, 2024, 1:41 pm

Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah holds an emergency meeting over Prajwal Revanna’s case post getting a letter from Rahul Gandhi.

Previously, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi called on Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to ensure accountability in the case involving Hassan MP Prajwal Revanna, stating, “all parties responsible are brought to book.”

In his letter, Gandhi expressed grave concern over the alleged sexual violence perpetrated by Revanna, highlighting that “hundreds of women” were reportedly assaulted and filmed over several years. He emphasized the need for stringent punishment, stating, “The rape of our mothers and sisters warrants the strictest possible punishment.”

Acknowledging the state government’s formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the matter, Gandhi asserted the Congress party’s moral obligation to pursue justice for the victims. He urged support for the victims, emphasizing compassion and solidarity in their quest for justice.

Expressing dismay over Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s alleged awareness of the allegations last December, Gandhi condemned the reported inaction and claimed that the government allowed the accused to flee India, hindering the investigation.

He further highlighted instances of violence against women across India, criticizing the Prime Minister’s purported silence and tacit support for alleged perpetrators.

The investigation involves HD Revanna and his son, Prajwal Revanna, who faces allegations of sexual harassment and criminal intimidation. HD Revanna has also been implicated in a kidnapping charge related to the case.

The Ministry of External Affairs disclosed Prajwal Revanna‘s travel to Germany on a diplomatic passport, prompting calls for its cancellation and his return.

CM Siddaramaiah had appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene in the matter and ensure Prajwal Revanna’s repatriation through diplomatic and law enforcement channels.

‘Obscene video’ case: Second lookout Notice Issued Against HD Revanna And His son Prajwal

May 4, 2024, 12:03 pm

In the midst of investigations into the alleged ‘obscene video’ case, Karnataka Home Minister Gangadharaiah Parameshwara stated on Saturday that a second lookout notice has been issued against both JD(S) MLA HD Revanna and his son, Prajwal Revanna.

“We have issued lookout notices against both HD Revanna and Prajwal Revanna. We had issued a lookout notice to HD Revanna as he may plan to go abroad. But the second notice was given yesterday. They have time until this evening to reply to the notices…” Karnataka Home Minister said while speaking to the media on Saturday.

“Revanna has also applied for bail for the Mysore kidnapping case as well. One person has been arrested in the case,” he added.

The first lookout notice was issued against HD Revanna and his son Prajwal Revanna after they sought time to appear before the investigation team.

The Karnataka Home Minister had on Thursday told the media about the lookout notice issued against the father-son duo in the case.

Meanwhile, HD Revanna has been booked on charges of kidnapping in connection with the ‘obscene video’ case. The action was taken based on a complaint lodged by the son of a woman who was allegedly “abducted and sexually abused.”

In his complaint filed to KR Nagar police in Mysuru, the man said his mother worked as a housemaid at HD Revanna’s home for six years before returning to her village, where she worked as a daily wage laborer.

The man later discovered a video allegedly depicting sexual abuse of his mother by incumbent MP and Hassan Lok Sabha candidate Prajwal Revanna. He said that soon after the video was revealed, his mother went missing.

He then filed a kidnapping complaint against HD Revanna and Babanna on Thursday night.

The Holenarsipura MLA and his associate were booked under Sections 364A (kidnapping for ransom), 365 (kidnapping with intent to cause harm), and 34 (common intention) of the IPC. The FIR, registered by KR Nagar police, also lists HD Revanna as accused number one and another man, identified as Babanna, as accused number two.

The FIR was registered hours before the anticipatory bail plea of HD Revanna came up for hearing in the Special Court for People’s Representatives in Bengaluru on Friday. He skipped the summons to appear before the Special Investigation Team (SIT) on May 2 for questioning.

HD Revanna and his son, Prajwal Revanna, who is the sitting MP and candidate from Hassan Lok Sabha constituency, are facing a probe by a Special Investigative Team (SIT), constituted by the Karnataka government, over allegations of sexual harassment and criminal intimidation following a complaint by a woman who worked in their household.

Revanna was booked in an alleged sexual harassment case on April 28 based on a complaint lodged with Holenarasipura Town police. The case was registered under sections 354A, 354D, 506, and 509 of the IPC on charges of sexual harassment, intimidation, and outraging the dignity of a woman. As per the complaint, the victim claimed that Prajwal Revanna and his father, HD Revanna, had sexually assaulted her.

On Thursday, the Ministry of External Affairs said that Prajwal Revanna had traveled to Germany on a diplomatic passport and that no political clearance was either sought from or issued by the MEA regarding his travel. Addressing a media briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that the Ministry did not issue any visa note for Prajwal to visit any other country.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi urging the Union government to cancel the diplomatic passport of Prajwal and ensure his return by making use of diplomatic and police channels.

Karnataka CM’s Son Sparks Controversy with Comment on Amit Shah; BJP Criticizes Congress

March 29, 2024, 12:52 pm

Yathindra Siddaramaiah, former Karnataka MLA and son of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, has stirred controversy after he made an objectionable remark against Union Minister Amit Shah, with the BJP hitting back at Congress. Congress leader Yathindra Siddaramaiah on Thursday targeted BJP leader and Home Minister Amit Shah by accusing him of being a ‘goonda, rowdy’.

“He (Amit Shah) faces murder charges in Gujarat. He has a background in criminal activities. But now, he is in a high position in the country,” he said on Thursday.

Yathindra’s statement drew severe criticism for his party from BJP leaders. BJP leader Chalavadi Narayanaswamy said that the “rowdy culture exists in the Congress,” not in his party. “This rowdy culture does not exist in the BJP. It exists only in Congress,” Narayanaswamy said.

BJP MP S Muniswamy, while taking a jibe at Yathindra, said that the latter is “frustrated” as he was denied a ticket from Mysore for the Lok Sabha elections.

“Siddaramaih promised a ticket to Yathindra from Mysore but didn’t give it to him. He is frustrated and that is why he is saying all this. He is a small kid and has no experience in politics. The more these people talk against the BJP and its leadership, the stronger the BJP becomes,” the BJP MP added.

BJP leader CT Ravi slammed the former Congress MLA and said, “He came to politics in the name of his father. Amit Shah is not like that. He worked as booth president at the booth level and then reached the top. He didn’t come to politics in the name of his father. Those who come to power in the name of their father behave like this.”

BJP leader N. Ravikumar, however, said that his party will lodge a complaint with the Election Commission and the police against Yathindra.

“Yathindra Siddaramaiah has used very inappropriate words for Home Minister Amit Shah. We will lodge a complaint with the Election Commission at 4pm today and we will also lodge a complaint with the police,” Ravikumar said.

He also asked Siddaramaiah to take action against his son if “he is running a fair and balanced government.” BJP leader S Suresh Kumar said that such remarks by Yathindra can prove to be costly for his future in politics.

“Yathindra Siddaramaih is an educated person… Using words like these for the Home Minister can prove costly for his future in politics,” S Suresh said.

Karnataka LoP R Ashoka dismisses CM Siddaramaiah’s ‘Operation Kamala’ claim

March 23, 2024, 3:45 pm

Dismissing Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s assertion that the BJP was offering Rs 50 crore each to ruling Congress MLAs to switch sides ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, Leader of Opposition R. Ashoka stated on Saturday that his party has not made any such offers to the rival camp.

Speaking to ANI, the LoP said, “The Congress is facing defeat in the Lok Sabha elections, which is why he (Siddaramaiah) is trying to divert public attention by making such baseless claims. He has concocted this ‘Operation Kamala’ to deceive the people. We have no intention to destabilize this government. In fact, they are driving their own government towards ruin. We have not made any offer to any Congress MLA. There are no such operations from our side.”

Meanwhile, the BJP’s state chief BY Vijayendra inaugurated and opened a dedicated media center of the party as part of the Lok Sabha election preparation.

“‘Once again Modi’ are not only the words of BJP workers. People of India want Modi as PM. His popularity is rising by the day. People across the length and breadth of the country believe in Modi. His vision is the development of India. Karnataka is South India’s gateway to the BJP,” Vijayendra said.

The BJP chief also remarked that Congress does not have candidates in Karnataka for the Lok Sabha election as JDS is also with his party.

In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the Congress and JDS fought together but were still defeated by the BJP. The BJP had won a record 25 seats while the Congress and JD-S had won just one seat each.

Yesterday, BJP leader and former Chief Minister of Karnataka, Basavaraj Bommai, stated that the party aims to make Narendra Modi the Prime Minister again.

Addressing party members in Hubballi, Bommai said, “We are on the battlefield and we must see only the target and not who is on the left or right side. We aim to make Modi PM again, and to achieve that, we must vote for Pralhad Joshi, who is the BJP candidate from Dharwad constituency.”

Bommai was campaigning for Joshi, who is contesting from the Dharwad constituency for BJP in Hubballi.

“I have said this many times; that’s why I am contesting. Modi must become the PM to provide shelter for all. Joshi has worked efficiently as the minister and brought a good name for all. He has done what no other MP has done in the past,” Bommai said.

Bommai also hinted that there would be two MPs for the Shiggaon constituency.

He urged the party members to work towards achieving at least one hundred more votes from each village than in the previous Assembly election.

“There was a lot of difference between the Assembly and the Lok Sabha polls. You must work for the candidate. My prestige will increase if Joshi gets the lead here. He should win the election by a margin of five lakh votes,” he said.

Union Minister and senior BJP leader Pralhad Joshi has been selected by the party to contest from the Dharwad Lok Sabha constituency for a fifth straight term.

The Dharwad Constituency has been a BJP stronghold since 1996. The four-time MP contested his first Lok Sabha election in 2004, winning the Dharwad constituency by defeating BS Patil of the Congress by 83,078 votes.

In 2009, he won his second term by defeating Kannur Manjunath Channappa of Congress with 1,37,663 votes. In the 2014 and 2019 Lok Sabha polls, he also retained the seat.

The Lok Sabha Elections 2024 will be held in seven phases starting on April 19. Karnataka will vote in two phases on April 26 and May 7. Counting of votes is on June 4.

Law will not snatch citizenship, Giriraj Singh said on CAA

March 13, 2024, 11:45 am

Union Minister Giriraj Singh stated that the Citizenship Amendment Act will “grant” citizenship to Indian citizens and “no one should have a problem” with the law.

The BJP leader said to ANI, “No one should have a problem with CAA. The law will not snatch citizenship. It is going to give citizenship to citizens of India.”

Replying to a query on West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, he said, “Let us see in the Lok Sabha elections…She is playing appeasement politics in West Bengal and will have to pay for it.”

Regarding the Congress releasing its second list of candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, he commented, “It is their own job.”

Meanwhile, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee criticized the Modi government on the CAA notification.

“The Central Government implemented CAA yesterday; I am doubtful of its legality. There is no clarity from the government over this. This is just a gimmick ahead of the elections. In 2019, the names of 13 lakh Hindu Bengalis, out of the total of 19 lakh, were removed from the list in Assam in the name of NRC. Several people died by suicide,” she said on Tuesday.

In reaction to the central government notifying the Rules of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), passed in 2019, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah questioned the inactivity of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on the CAA in the last few years and suggested that its implementation is timed with the upcoming elections.

“They (Centre) have implemented CAA as elections are coming up. Why were they quiet till now? I oppose the granting of citizenship based on religion,” Siddaramaiah said speaking to reporters at Chamarajanagar on Tuesday.

On March 11, the Union Home Ministry notified the rules of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), days before the announcement of the Lok Sabha election schedule.
The CAA rules, introduced by the Narendra Modi government and passed by Parliament in 2019, aim to grant Indian citizenship to persecuted non-Muslim migrants, such as Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Buddhists, Parsis, and Christians, who migrated from Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Afghanistan and arrived in India before December 31, 2014.

AICC right on boycotting Ayodhya function: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah

January 11, 2024, 3:38 pm

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed support for the decision of AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge, senior leader Sonia Gandhi, and the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Adhir Chowdhury, to refrain from participating in the Ram Lalla installation ceremony in Ayodhya. Siddaramaiah emphasized that the event, meant to be a religious ceremony, had been turned into a political campaign by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and leaders of the Sangh Parivar, showing disrespect to Lord Rama and the entire nation.

He criticized BJP and RSS leaders for their silence on PM Modi’s inauguration of the incomplete Ram Temple, stating that it exposed their hypocritical version of Hindutva. Siddaramaiah affirmed the Congress’s consistent support for the construction of the Ram Temple, respecting the court’s verdict. He highlighted the hypocrisy of BJP, RSS, and Vishwa Hindu Parishad leaders, who initially argued that the matter was one of faith, not for the court to decide, but later accepted the Supreme Court’s verdict.

Siddaramaiah expressed concern over controversial statements by the secretary of the Ram Mandir Trust, stating that Shaivas and Shaktas have no rights in the Ram Temple. He viewed this as an insult to Shaiva devotees and criticized the political exploitation of the Ram Temple for divisive purposes.

Accusing PM Modi of inaugurating the incomplete Ram Temple during the election period to stir up Hindutva sentiment and divert attention from failures, Siddaramaiah urged people not to fall for this false Hindutva trap. He noted the public’s increasing scepticism regarding the accounting of donations collected in the name of bricks for the temple.

Siddaramaiah clarified that while he had participated in numerous religious events, including temple inaugurations, he opposed the use of religion for political purposes. He stressed the constitutional principle of respect for all religions and affirmed his commitment, as well as that of the Congress party, to create a peaceful coexistence of all communities in society.

Karnataka CM justifies arrest of man for post Babri demolition riots, BJP calls for statewide protest

January 3, 2024, 7:23 am

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah dismissed the opposition’s allegation of hate politics in connection with the arrest of a man linked to the riots that took place after the Babri Masjid demolition in 1992.

Speaking on the arrest, CM Siddaramaiah asked, “What should be done to the wrongdoers? Should we just leave them?”
“We have told the police to dispose of old cases. No innocents have been arrested. We will proceed according to the court’s direction,” he said while speaking to reporters during his visit to Basapur Airport in Koppa.

On BJP MLA Yashpal Suvarna’s demand for a holiday on January 22 for the Ram Mandir inauguration, CM Siddaramaiah said, “I am not aware of the BJP’s demand for a government holiday. I don’t know about the leave.”

“The central government is organizing the program, and they can decide on leave,” he added.
Responding to the controversy surrounding Ram Mandir inauguration invitation, Siddaramaiah stated, “I don’t know whom they invited or left out. Whoever goes, let them go.”

BJP condemned the arrest of the man in Hubbali for his alleged role in the post Babri demolition riots after 31 years. The Karnataka state unit has called for a protest against the state government.

Speaking on the matter, BJP leader BY Vijayendra said, “They have arrested a Ram bhakt when the state and the whole nation is waiting for January 22. We strongly condemn this.”
“We are calling for a protest throughout the state against the government and anti-Hindu accusations,” he added.

Meanwhile, an effigy of CM Siddaramaiah was burnt as a mark of protest against the Hubballi arrest.
The demonstration was staged by Peethadheeshwar Jagadguru Paramhans Acharya of Tapaswi camp in Ayodhya.

The Ayodhya Tapaswi camp Peethadheeshwar demanded the removal of the Siddaramaiah government and urged to bring President’s rule in the state.
“President’s rule is demanded. Siddaramaiah government should be removed immediately otherwise the saints of Ayodhya will march to Karnataka,” he said.

“300 Kar Sevaks are being falsely implicated over their alleged involvement in Babri Masjid demolition in 1992,” he added.

BJP to protest against reopening of 31-yr-old case, arrest of Hindu activist

January 3, 2024, 2:13 am

In a press conference held at the BJP state office “Jagannath Bhavan” in Malleswaram on Tuesday, party state President B.Y. Vijayendra expressed strong condemnation for the Congress-led Karnataka government’s decision to reopen a 31-year-old case in Hubli and the subsequent arrest of a Hindu activist Srikanth Pujari.

Vijayendra accused Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s government of being anti-Hindu and questioned the motive behind reviving an old case that dates back to the prelude of the Ram Janmabhoomi dispute. He criticised the timing of the arrest, which coincided with the joyous occasion of the installation of Lord Sri Rama in Ayodhya on January 22.

“By choosing such a situation, the Chief Minister has demonstrated that this is an anti-Hindu government,” Vijayendra declared, stressing that the state-wide protest planned for Wednesday (January 3) is an expression of discontent against the government’s actions.
The BJP leader denounced the government’s interference with the celebration surrounding the Ayodhya event and accused it of hurting the sentiments of Hindus across the country.

Vijayendra announced a massive protest to be held in all district centres, in addition to Freedom Park in Bangalore, as a mark of opposition against the alleged anti-Hindu stance of the Congress government.

Vijayendra highlighted the 31-year-old case involving riots in Hubli before the Karseva on December 5, 1992. The case, initially registered against nine individuals, including Hindu activists, remained dormant for decades. The accused, who were in their 30s at the time, are now in their 65-70s.

“The Congress government’s relentless pursuit of old cases, particularly on the brink of the Ayodhya celebrations, is a cause for concern,” Vijayendra stated. He held Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Home Minister responsible for the unfolding events, warning of repercussions in the future.

As the BJP gears up for a statewide protest, Vijayendra urged people from all parties to condemn the government’s actions. He stressed that Ayodhya is an emotional issue and the birthplace of Lord Rama, and the Congress government’s decisions have only served to hurt the sentiments of Hindus and Hindu activists.