'Hatred Politics Embedded in His DNA': Deputy CM Shivakumar Critiques Union Minister Kumaraswamy
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Synopsis
Karnataka Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar firmly rebutted allegations of 'hatred politics' by Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy, addressing encroachment claims and political motivations during a media interaction. He emphasizes the need for justice and plans for district renaming amidst ongoing political tensions.
Key Takeaways
- Shivakumar's Response: Accuses Kumaraswamy of having hatred politics in his DNA.
- Land Dispute: Claims of encroachment filed by activist S.R. Hiremath.
- Political Allegations: Denies that legal actions are politically motivated.
- District Renaming: Plans to rename Ramanagara to Bengaluru South.
- Empowerment: Advocates for justice for marginalized communities.
Bengaluru, March 20 (NationPress) Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar fiercely responded on Thursday to accusations of "hatred politics" made by Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy, following the filing of an alleged encroachment case against him.
"Hatred politics is ingrained in his (Kumaraswamy's) DNA. The legal case regarding the supposed encroachment in Kethaganahalli near Bidadi, located on the outskirts of Bengaluru, was initiated by activist S.R. Hiremath. Officials acted according to the court's directive. How can this be categorized as hatred politics?" Shivakumar remarked in response to inquiries from reporters at the Vidhana Soudha.
In addressing Kumaraswamy's claim that the action concerning the Kethaganahalli land issue was politically motivated, he stated, "Did we bring this case to court? It was S.R. Hiremath who initiated it. He has also lodged multiple cases against me. Following his petition, the court instructed officials, and they proceeded accordingly. Where is the hatred politics in this?"
Commenting on allegations directed at him from Kumaraswamy's family, Shivakumar noted: "In Mysuru, Kumaraswamy made numerous remarks against me. His father, former PM H. D. Deve Gowda, has also spoken out against me. Did they not file cases against me, my wife, my sister, and my brother?"
"Despite having no ties to Ballari, did they not accuse me of iron ore theft? Was there not an investigation into me? Even after forming a government together in the past, we have kept quiet. If Kumaraswamy maintains his dignity, everything will be alright."
Concerning the Central government’s rejection of the proposal to rename Ramanagara district, he mentioned: "They are pressuring the Central government to block the renaming of Ramanagara district. We are aware of the law. The Constitution does not mandate us to seek approval from anyone."
"We have submitted a proposal with all necessary details. Some ministers in Delhi are conspiring against it, but we will not retreat. We know how to rename a district and reorganize it. We plan to rename Ramanagara to Bengaluru South," Shivakumar declared.
Responding to the criticism that this renaming is aimed at real estate gains, he humorously replied: "Yes, we are doing it for real estate benefits. Shouldn’t it also benefit our communities in Kanakapura, Ramanagara, Channapatna, and Magadi? Why did you come here? Our people are essentially Bengaluru residents. They need to thrive. Their lands have depreciated in value. We aim to ensure their prosperity. What’s wrong with that?"
Providing updates on the Union Jal Shakti Minister’s meeting, Shivakumar remarked: "The Central government has arranged a conciliation meeting between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu regarding the Pennar River water dispute, following court orders."
"Initially, they set a date, but we requested a postponement due to the Belagavi session. Later, they invited us for a meeting on March 18. Rumors suggest Tamil Nadu declined to engage with Karnataka for discussions. However, the Union Minister officially informed me that the meeting has been rescheduled," he added.
"The Central ministers will conduct separate discussions with Tamil Nadu, likely due to their political motives. Prior to the meeting, I consulted with the cabinet regarding Karnataka's position," he stated.
When queried about his meeting with Congress high command leaders, he mentioned: "As this year marks 100 years since Mahatma Gandhi took on the Congress presidency, we are planning to establish 100 Congress offices across the state. I have invited our high command leaders to finalize a date for the foundation stone laying ceremony."
In response to BJP state President B. Y. Vijayendra’s remarks about him addressing some leaders from Mandya as ‘Chhatri’ (untrustworthy), Shivakumar shot back: "If I am arrogant, let him try to bring me down. I will refer to my close associates however I wish, out of affection. What is his issue? Some individuals even call their close ones ‘thief, my son’ and other terms. These are personal relationships, and there is no problem with that."
When asked if he discussed resigning as Congress state President in a party meeting, he replied: "The party will determine that. I have fulfilled my duties. No one is permanent here. My ambition is to complete the construction of the Congress offices during my term. We have additional responsibilities to fulfill."
"Whenever the party decides, I will comply - be it today, tomorrow, five years, or ten years from now. I am not in any rush. I am devoted to the party’s decision," Shivakumar clarified.
Reacting to BJP’s protests against the 4 percent reservation for minorities in contracts, he asserted: "It is our responsibility to ensure justice for all communities. We treat everyone equally. The Congress government will collaborate with marginalized groups and empower them."
Regarding BJP MLA N. Munirathna’s claim of a conspiracy to harm him, Shivakumar remarked, "I will discuss with the Speaker and request medical care for him."
