'Karnataka CM Trying To Make An Issue': BJP's Vijayendra On Centre Rejecting State's R-Day Parade Tableau

Earlier, Siddaramaiah remarked that Central government has disrespected the seven crore Kannadigas by denying the state a chance to display its tableau at the Republic Day parade on January 26.

Shikaripura MLA Vijayendra said instead of politicizing the issue when they learned that Karnataka was excluded, they should have promptly approached the Centre

The exclusion of Karnataka's tableau from the Republic Day parade in New Delhi has sparked a controversy between the BJP and Congress in the state. Karnataka BJP state president BY Vijayendra expressed the view that the government should have approached the Centre rather than politicizing the matter. Earlier, CM Siddaramaiah slammed the Centre for denying an opportunity to the state.

Addressing the reporters, Vijayendra said, the tableaux of Karnataka were part of the parade for 14 consecutive years. However, the state could not get the chance this year as the opportunity was provided to other states. 

"As far as the tableau issue is concerned, Karnataka has had an opportunity for the last 14 years. Since every state has to get the opportunity, Karnataka has missed this time," Vijayendra said, as per a report on PTI.

Last year, when Karnataka's proposal for a tableau was initially denied permission but the then BJP government swiftly took action approached Delhi and secured the state's participation. However, this time, the current government chose not to follow the same course of action. Instead of politicising the issue when they learned that Karnataka was excluded, they should have promptly approached the Central government, said the Shikaripura MLA.

Despite this, he said that Karnataka would have an opportunity at the Republic Day parade next year, ensuring the state's tableau is showcased in the exhibition to prevent any injustice. He expressed disappointment that the present government in Karnataka, particularly the chief minister, is attempting to turn this into a contentious matter.

Earlier, Siddaramaiah remarked on Tuesday that the Central government has disrespected the seven crore Kannadigas by denying the state a chance to display its tableau at the Republic Day parade on January 26. The Chief Minister highlighted that although numerous tableau proposals were submitted from Karnataka, the Central Government unfortunately rejected all of them.