'Siddaramulla Khan': Karnataka BJP MP Jibes At CM, Siddaramaiah Calls BJP 'Anti-Minority'

BJP MP Anantkumar Hegde referred to the Karnataka Chief Minister as "Siddaramulla Khan" prompting CM Siddaramaiah to brand the BJP as "anti-minority".

In a heated exchange of accusations, BJP MP Anantkumar Hegde has levied severe allegations against Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, accusing him of driving the state into bankruptcy under the Congress-led government. Hegde, speaking at a party event, referred to the Chief Minister as "Siddaramulla Khan," alleging a deliberate ploy by the Congress to exploit the state for electoral gains, news agency PTI reported. He contrasted this with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's governance, highlighting the implementation of numerous schemes without risking financial stability.

"Modi brought more than 370 schemes or programmes for the benefit of the people. Whether it is for agriculture, horticulture, industries, housing, Janaushadhi, almost in all sectors he has introduced programmes for the welfare of the people," Hegde asserted, underlining the economic strides under Modi's leadership, as quoted by PTI.

 "I have never seen such a disgusting government. I have seen several Congress Chief Ministers, also Janata Dal government, but had never seen such a government," he said while claiming that only "Siddaramulla Khan has issues over tax devolution and grant in aid to the state by the Centre, while other states don't."    

Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Calls BJP 'Anti-Minority'

CM Siddaramaiah swiftly retaliated, branding the BJP as "anti-Muslims" and "anti-minority" in his response to Hegde's remarks. "They (BJP) speak about sabka-saath-sabka-vikas, but they oppose Muslims. If not, why will he (Hegde) call me Siddaramulla Khan?" Siddaramaiah questioned, vehemently denying Hegde's accusations of financial mismanagement, as per PTI.

Siddaramaiah further challenged Hegde's credibility, questioning his suitability as a Member of Parliament, citing past controversial remarks. "Anantkumar Hegde is someone who spoke about changing the Constitution. Is he fit to be an MP? If such a person makes such statements, what value will it have?" the Chief Minister remarked, casting doubt on Hegde's statements.

In response to Hegde's claim that only Karnataka has raised concerns over central funds, Siddaramaiah pointed out that other states, including Kerala and Tamil Nadu, have also protested against perceived injustices in fund allocation.