Former Karnataka Minister KS Eshwarappa Booked For 'Provocative' Remarks On 'Islamisation'

The complaint, filed by Sidde Gowda HM, a police officer, alleged that Eshwarappa accused the Congress-led state government of "Islamisation" and warned of potential communal unrest

The Jayanagar Police have registered a case against former Minister KS Eshwarappa on charges of promoting enmity between groups and attempting to outrage religious sentiments. The case was initiated following statements made by Eshwarappa during a press conference held on November 13 in Shivamogga, which have sparked controversy and criticism.

The complaint, filed by Sidde Gowda HM, a police officer, alleged that Eshwarappa accused the Congress-led state government of "Islamisation" and warned of potential communal unrest, as per a report on The Hindu. Eshwarappa reportedly claimed that the government was silent on issues related to Waqf properties and a Muslim leader's controversial remarks about BR Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution.

He also criticised Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, alleging that his government was planning to introduce a 4% reservation for Muslims in government contracts, reported The New Indian Express. These statements, widely circulated in media and social platforms, are accused of inciting hatred and intensifying communal tensions.

Eshwarappa’s remarks included a provocative query asking whether the Congress intended to turn "Hindustan into Pakistan."

Reacting to the development, the District Congress Committee, led by its president R Prasanna Kumar, condemned Eshwarappa’s remarks. The party called on law enforcement to act swiftly, urging the superintendent of police to take stringent action against the former minister and his supporters for allegedly spreading communal disharmony.

The case has added to the ongoing political tensions in Karnataka, with the Congress and BJP trading barbs over various issues, including reservations and communal harmony. 

Following this, Eshwarappa was booked under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023.

However, it may be noted that KS Eshwarappa was ousted from BJP after he decided to contest as a rebel candidate from Shivamogga constituency. After his contest, Eshwarappa managed only to secure 30,000 votes in the seat.