Bengaluru, Feb 23 (NationPress) Karnataka's Home Minister, Parameshwara, addressed media inquiries on Monday regarding the call for a Dalit Chief Minister, suggesting that these claims stem from the Opposition. He expressed admiration for Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, highlighting his longstanding commitment to social justice.

“The Opposition is making unfounded claims to divert attention from their own challenges,” he asserted.

It is important to note that Parameshwara is a leading figure from the Dalit community and that CM Siddaramaiah's faction has purportedly insisted that he should assume the Chief Minister position if there is a change in leadership.

During his media briefing in Bengaluru, Home Minister Parameshwara commented, "Is the Chief Minister not effectively managing the state? Over the last 12 days, he has engaged in discussions with various ministers and officials concerning the Budget. The Opposition is unnecessarily raising the issue of a Dalit Chief Minister.”

He clarified that the decision to appoint a Dalit Chief Minister rests with the Congress party and that the high command will make a decision when appropriate.

Parameshwara emphasized that CM Siddaramaiah’s political foundation has always been rooted in social justice and noted that this commitment is not a recent development.

He remarked that Siddaramaiah has consistently championed social justice, stating, “The essence of his political approach is social justice. This is not a new initiative for him.”

In light of upcoming Ramzan and Holi celebrations, he stressed that the law must be upheld, stating, “Festivals should be celebrated in a peaceful and joyous manner. We will not tolerate any misconduct, and strict orders have been issued to officials in this regard.”

Addressing the proposal for banning mobile phones in educational institutions, he mentioned ongoing discussions about this ban in schools and colleges. He pointed out that granting mobile phones to children under 16 negatively impacts their education.

“Numerous countries have conducted studies and implemented bans on mobile phones. The Chief Minister has deliberated on this matter, and a decision will be made after evaluating the advantages and disadvantages,” he added.

On the topic of illegal migrants and their suspected involvement in unlawful activities, he indicated that the state's internal security unit is on high alert. Operations have been conducted across all districts to identify illegal migrants.

Regarding student elections in universities and colleges, he reflected on past conflicts during elections under K.H. Ranganath's tenure as Higher Education Minister, which led to a ban on these elections due to violence among student groups.

He noted that during his own time as Higher Education Minister, syndicate elections were also prohibited. “Currently, there is pressure to reconsider the resumption of student elections. We will await the Cabinet's decision on this issue,” he concluded.