BJP MP Anantkumar Hegde stated on Saturday that the Bhatkal mosque in Karnataka would face the same fate as the Babri Masjid, which was demolished by Hindu 'kar sevaks' in 1992, news agency ANI reported. "The destruction of Bhatkal Mosque is guaranteed like Babri Masjid. This is not the decision of Anantkumar Hegde, but the decision of Hindu society," Hegde said. The BJP MP further accused the Congress of centuries of splitting Hindu society, branding them "anti-Hindu" and "against Sanatana Dharma."
Furthermore, the BJP MP singled out Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah as the true opponent, rather than the Congress. Hegde chastised individuals seeking minority votes, saying they were adversaries to his cause.
"Siddaramaiah first said he had not received an invitation to the inauguration of Ayodhya's Ram Mandir. Then he said that he wouldn't attend it. I would like to say, whether he comes or not, the inauguration of Ram Mandir will take place," he stated.
In reaction to Hedge's statement, workers from the Congress Party protested against the BJP MP.
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah criticised the BJP MP for his contentious statements, saying the latter's language reflected his culture.
Responding to BJP MP's remark, CM Siddaramaiah stated: "This is the manner in which they express themselves. Can we demand respect from individuals who engage in political discourse? Politically, the use of offensive language may not affect me, but it reflects on their character."