Chief Minister Siddaramaiah launched a sharp attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Sunday. He condemned abusive remarks made by former BJP ministers B Sreeramulu and G Janardhana Reddy against Congress functionaries. Siddaramaiah stated these comments reflect the BJP's political culture.
Siddaramaiah Recalls Ballari Campaign Incident
Siddaramaiah referenced a past incident during the Lok Sabha elections. He said BJP workers prevented him from campaigning in Ballari. At that time, he was the Leader of the Opposition. Former Union minister CM Ibrahim accompanied him.
"We eventually campaigned near a Kuruba temple," Siddaramaiah recalled. He argued this event alone proves the BJP's lack of faith in democracy and its inclination towards authoritarianism.
Response to BJP's Ballari Agitations
The Chief Minister responded to the BJP's call for protests over recent violence in Ballari. He said protests by an opposition party are its internal matter. The government will respond appropriately to any situation.
Siddaramaiah specifically targeted G Janardhana Reddy. He pointed out Reddy was once barred from entering Ballari district. The CM also cited former Lokayukta Justice N Santosh Hegde's report on illegal mining. Hegde had referred to Ballari as the "Republic of Ballari."
Defending Congress's Democratic Credentials
Siddaramaiah firmly rejected the BJP's allegation that Congress is turning Karnataka into a "Republic of Congress." He asserted his party stands firmly for democracy, the Constitution, and its ideals.
"Congress does not need lessons from those who resort to hooliganism," he declared. He questioned the political motives behind the BJP's current agitations.
Countering Allegations on CBI Cases
The Chief Minister addressed the issue of investigations. He stated that when the BJP was in power, it did not hand over a single case to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
"They have no moral right to question us. Our government has handed over 7-8 cases to CBI," Siddaramaiah emphasized, defending his administration's actions.
Justifying the Legislature Session
Siddaramaiah also addressed criticism about convening a legislature session. The session was called to discuss the scrapping of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA).
He clarified that the Constitution mandates a joint session at the legislature's first meeting in a calendar year. The special session aimed to oppose attempts to dilute key UPA-era welfare laws.
These laws include:
- The MGNREGA
- The Right to Education Act
- The Right to Information Act
- The National Food Security Act
Siddaramaiah concluded by reaffirming his government's commitment to democratic principles and welfare policies.
