Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah Accuses BJP's Yatnal of Anti-Minority Politics

Belagavi: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has accused BJP MLA Basangouda Patil Yatnal of engaging in anti-minority politics.

The Chief Minister's remarks came in response to questions from journalists regarding Yatnal's allegations that Siddaramaiah had shared a stage with Tanveer Peera (Tanveer Hashmi), whom Yatnal had accused of being a terror sympathizer.

"I have known Hashmi for many years. Why was Yatnal silent all this time? Yatnal is involved in hate politics and anti-minority politics. He should not resort to such tactics just to win elections," Siddaramaiah said.

The Chief Minister continued, "Hashmi has challenged Yatnal to substantiate his claims. Let him prove what he said. Yatnal's party has been in power at the center for 10 years. He should provide evidence instead of just making allegations."

Responding to questions about the Congress expanding its presence in South India, Siddaramaiah questioned the existence of the BJP in the region. "The BJP is not present in South India. Where is it?" he asked.

The Chief Minister also criticized BJP leaders who targeted the Congress government alleging that the government was diverting SCSP-TSP funds.

"Govind Karjol (BJP leader) should explain why the SCSP-TSP funds were reduced during the BJP government's tenure in the state. In my last budget (in the previous term), we had allocated Rs 30,000 crore, while in their term, it was decreased to Rs 25,000 crore. They should provide the reasons," he added.