Bengaluru: Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy strongly criticised the growing involvement of religious heads in political matters, saying it was inappropriate for Swamijis to intervene in the Congress party’s internal disputes. “Let politicians engage in politics. Religious heads must stay away from the temptation of expressing allegiance to any individual,” he said.
Speaking to reporters after the NDA Coordination Committee meeting in Bengaluru, Kumaraswamy said Swamijis had “no role whatsoever” in the Congress leadership fight. “This is purely an internal conflict within their party. Religious leaders should not step into it,” he remarked.
Calls for Social Harmony; Warns Against Caste-Based Provocations
The Union Minister cautioned that no one should create an environment for caste conflict in the state. “Society must not be pushed towards caste clashes. No one should be responsible for such tensions,” he said, adding that Karnataka needs peace, not polarisation.
He criticised attempts to drag caste and religious identities into political controversy. “Using religious institutions for political battles does not bring dignity to anyone,” he stated.
“Caste Politics Will Damage Karnataka, Not Politicians”
Kumaraswamy lashed out at the Congress leadership for allegedly igniting caste-based politics across the state. “The damage from caste politics will not hurt politicians—its impact will fall on the state. Karnataka today is seeing divisions among communities. This is not just Congress’ embarrassment; it is the state’s embarrassment,” he said.
He accused the government of failing to live up to the mandate given by the people. “The public gave them 140 seats. Even with such a big majority, what have they achieved in two-and-a-half years? Nothing but fighting for chairs. They have no understanding of people’s problems,” he said.
Responds Sharply to CM Siddaramaiah’s Allegation Against BJP–JDS
Reacting to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s claim that BJP and JDS were spreading lies, Kumaraswamy retorted sharply:
“Siddaramaiah alone is the modern-day ‘Sathya Harishchandra’, it seems! If the real Harishchandra had to walk into the forest today, he would have done so with Siddaramaiah’s donation box hanging around his neck. That’s why the CM speaks like this,” he said sarcastically.
Warns Congress Against Dragging Caste & Religion into Politics
Referring to recent statements from select Swamijis of the Vokkaliga, Kuruba and other communities, Kumaraswamy said their comments must be treated as purely personal opinions. “Caste and religious conflicts should not be fuelled. That is dangerous for Karnataka,” he said.
Attack on State Government: Flood Relief, Belagavi Session, Farmers’ Issues
Kumaraswamy said the NDA partners would corner the government in the upcoming Belagavi session starting December 8.
He criticised the Congress government for its failure to respond effectively to floods in North Karnataka. “People have lost homes, property and livelihoods, but the state government has not stood by them. Their only job is blaming the Centre,” he said.
He also accused the government of denying water for the second crop to Tungabhadra basin farmers. “Both our parties will raise this strongly in the Assembly,” he said.
Allegations Against Police Under Siddaramaiah’s Tenure
The Union Minister also levelled serious allegations at the state police machinery.
“Whenever Siddaramaiah becomes Chief Minister, some policemen themselves get involved in robbery,” he alleged.
He cited previous incidents:
- A Mysuru bus robbery case during Siddaramaiah’s earlier tenure, in which a police officer was allegedly involved
- A recent ATM cash heist reportedly involving a policeman
- Misuse of mobile phones inside Parappana Agrahara prison
- A distillery-style illegal liquor setup allegedly operating inside the jail
“What kind of inspection was being done? Were ministers going to check the quality of the jail-made liquor?” he mocked.
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