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The political landscape of Karnataka is witnessing a heated exchange between former Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy and current Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. This latest dispute centers around the role of the state governor and the differing stances taken by the two leaders. Kumaraswamy has accused Siddaramaiah of displaying blatant hypocrisy in his treatment of the governor, highlighting a pattern of inconsistency in the Congress leader's approach.
Kumaraswamy points out that Siddaramaiah, during his previous tenure as Chief Minister, had openly praised the governor for his decision to allow the prosecution of former Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa. Now, however, Siddaramaiah and his Congress party members are actively expressing disrespect towards the governor after he granted permission for Siddaramaiah's prosecution. Kumaraswamy further emphasizes the Congress party's shifting narratives regarding the governor, contrasting their stance during the tenure of the late Hansraj Bhardwaj with their current behavior under Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot.
The intensity of this political battle escalated further as Kumaraswamy highlighted the Congress leaders' actions of placing slippers on the governor's portrait and burning his effigies, actions which he views as highly disrespectful. He questions the party's hypocrisy, asking whom they will target next with such blatant disrespect. He defends the governor's actions as legitimate, emphasizing that the governor has the right to seek clarifications from the government, a point Siddaramaiah himself had previously acknowledged. Kumaraswamy criticizes Siddaramaiah's apparent forgetfulness of his own past statements, urging him to remain consistent in his approach.
Kumaraswamy delves into the allegations against Siddaramaiah, highlighting the multiple cases filed against him in the Lokayukta. He challenges Siddaramaiah's claim of innocence, questioning why he rushed several decisions during cabinet meetings if he had no involvement in the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) scam. The delay in registering an FIR against Siddaramaiah even after 48 hours of the court's order further fuels Kumaraswamy's criticisms, suggesting a lack of transparency and accountability in the governance of the current government.
Shifting focus to the allegations against him, Kumaraswamy clarifies that he voluntarily appeared before the Lokayukta office, stating that they would not have been able to initiate any action without his presence. He categorically denies any involvement in illegal activities like land grabbing or encroachment in the Arkavathy region. He expresses his willingness to face the legal process, stating that he will accept the court's verdict. He firmly rejects calls for his resignation, arguing that such demands are unjustified until a court judgment is reached.
This political feud highlights the complexities of governance in Karnataka. Kumaraswamy's accusations of double standards raise significant questions about the integrity of the current government. The ongoing legal cases against Siddaramaiah and the allegations of misuse of power add further layers to this contentious political scenario. The next few weeks will be crucial in determining how this conflict plays out and its implications for the future of Karnataka politics.
Source: HD Kumaraswamy Attacks Siddaramaiah For "Double Standards" On Karnataka Governor