Karnataka Minister B Z Zameer Ahmed Khan has sparked debate after defending the display of the Palestinian flag during recent Milad-ul-Nabi processions in the state. The minister asserted that there was "nothing wrong" in holding the Palestinian flag, citing the Central government's expressed support for a Palestinian state.
During media interactions on Thursday, Khan criticised the BJP for making an issue out of the incidents where Palestinian flags were reportedly waved in Chitradurga, Davanagere, and Kolar during the religious processions. He emphasised that while shouting slogans in support of other countries would be unacceptable, merely holding the flag did not constitute wrongdoing.
Khan's comments come after six minors in Chikkamagaluru were apprehended following the circulation of a video showing them riding two-wheelers while holding Palestinian flags, which further escalated the controversy on social media.
"Central government itself has given support to Palestine, the Central government has declared that we are supporting Palestine. Just because someone held the flag, the BJP is making it a big issue. If someone says 'jai' (hailing) to another country it is wrong, he is a traitor and should be hanged, but there is nothing wrong in holding a (Palestinian) flag, according to me," Khan said, as per a report on PTI.
The minister also addressed BJP allegations that the banned Popular Front of India (PFI) was involved in recent violence in Nagamangala, Mandya district. Khan stated that while two individuals of Kerala origin were arrested in connection with the incident, they had been settled in the area for over 50 years and were now considered locals. "They are Kannadigas now," he added, questioning the BJP's focus on the issue.
Khan concluded by highlighting that people in India have the constitutional right to settle in any state and that the BJP should not use such incidents for political gain.