Siddaramaiah Accuses BJP of Desperation Over Yatnal's Campaign Role
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Saturday launched a sharp critique against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), stating that its decision to deploy expelled MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal in its election campaign demonstrates a clear sign of desperation and a profound lack of consistency. The remarks were made during a press conference in Bagalkot, where the chief minister addressed multiple political controversies.
Questioning BJP's Principles and Consistency
"Instead of levelling baseless allegations, the BJP should present its achievements before the people," Siddaramaiah asserted, emphasizing the need for substantive political discourse. He specifically highlighted the case of Yatnal, who was expelled from the BJP only to be reintegrated into the party's campaign efforts.
"They expelled Yatnal and then brought him back. Is there any principle or consistency in this? Politics should not descend to such a low level," the chief minister remarked, pointing to what he described as internal contradictions within the opposition party. Siddaramaiah noted that Yatnal continues to publicly criticize former chief minister BS Yediyurappa and BJP state president BY Vijayendra, further illustrating the party's fragmented stance.
Defending Budget Allocations for Minorities
Siddaramaiah also firmly rejected allegations from BJP leaders that the state budget unfairly favors Muslims, labeling these claims as uninformed. "They have not even read the budget," he said in response to comments by senior BJP leader CT Ravi, underscoring a lack of diligence in the opposition's critique.
In defense of the allocations, the chief minister explained that Muslims constitute a significant portion of Karnataka's population. "Muslims make up around 40%. Even then, what has been allocated to them is not excessive, but rather less in proportion," he stated, arguing that the budget provisions are both justified and necessary for equitable development.
Criticizing BJP's Campaign Tactics and Internal Conflicts
Taking aim at Vijayendra's demand for a white paper on government finances, Siddaramaiah accused the BJP of inconsistency, once again referencing the Yatnal episode as evidence of the party's contradictory actions. He suggested that such moves reflect deeper internal conflicts and a scramble for political relevance.
Commenting on the BJP's campaign strategy ahead of the upcoming byelection, Siddaramaiah attributed the opposition's aggressive rhetoric to apprehension over the electoral outcome. "They know they will not come to power, and that is why they are making such statements," he said, implying that fear of defeat is driving the BJP's confrontational approach.
Condemning Provocative Rhetoric on Religious Structures
Reacting to reports of Yatnal's alleged remarks about demolishing a mosque using a JCB machine, Siddaramaiah termed such statements as highly irresponsible. "Talking about demolishing mosques shows a lack of common sense," he cautioned, warning against the dangers of provocative rhetoric that could incite communal tensions. He urged political leaders to exercise restraint and promote harmony in their public discourse.
Overall, Siddaramaiah's press conference served as a robust defense of his government's policies while mounting a pointed attack on the BJP's campaign methods and internal coherence, framing the opposition's actions as desperate and inconsistent in the face of electoral challenges.
