Hassan (Karnataka), Jan 21 (NationPress) Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy has taken aim at Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, criticizing the serious deterioration of law and order in the state and alleging that MLAs are facing threats.

During a media interaction while evaluating the preparations for the forthcoming JD (S) convention in Hassan, he expressed his concerns.

Responding vigorously to the legal action against JD (S) MLA Karemma Nayak from the Devadurga constituency, Kumaraswamy remarked that this incident is indicative of the government's disgraceful behavior.

“This situation exemplifies the extent to which this government has declined. It is not merely an isolated case involving MLA Karemma Nayak; she encounters threats and intimidation daily,” he stated.

Karemma Nayak has reportedly claimed that members of an illegal sand mining operation have openly threatened her to cease actions against unlawful sand extraction in Raichur district.

Furthermore, Union Minister Kumaraswamy highlighted that Congress leader Rajeev Gowda, who threatened Sidlaghatta municipal commissioner Amrutha Gowda, remains unarrested. “They continually assert he will be apprehended. Just yesterday, the Home Minister mentioned efforts are being made to arrest him, but they are awaiting the court's decision on his bail plea,” Kumaraswamy expressed, showing his discontent.

The escalating internal conflicts within the Congress party have brought development in the state to a halt, as the Chief Minister strives to safeguard his position. “I refrain from discussing the CM’s chair, but there is no government worse than this in the entire nation,” Kumaraswamy sharply criticized.

As the power struggle within Congress continues, the CM’s supporters are organizing AHINDA conventions in five locations. Addressing the Chief Minister and AHINDA organizations, Kumaraswamy posed a pointed question: “In 2023, 2024, and 2025, why were scholarships not disbursed to 1,64,000 backward class and minority Muslim students?” he inquired.

“Under the guise of AHINDA, you have exploited these communities to bolster your position. For the past three years, you have deceived these children by withholding funds. You blame lapses in the Finance Department for the non-payment. Who holds the Finance portfolio? This government has let down the AHINDA communities,” Kumaraswamy charged.

The Union Minister also evaluated preparations for the JD (S) convention scheduled for January 24. Accompanied by former minister and his brother MLA H.D. Revanna, he inspected the venue and assessed the arrangements.

Kumaraswamy stated, “Hassan district is the land of our ancestors who reinforced the Janata Dal. This district serves as our party's karmabhoomi. Here, we are initiating a renewed effort to fortify our party organization. From this revered land, we are starting preparations for the 2028 Assembly elections and local body elections. This program symbolizes the commencement of strengthening the Janata Dal family and disseminating a powerful message.”

When asked about the use of ballot papers over EVMs in Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) elections, Kumaraswamy responded, “Our party has not yet deliberated on EVMs or ballot papers. Those discussing these matters should reflect. Congress leaders are talking about EVMs. I challenge the Chief Minister, you secured 135 seats; did you achieve this through EVMs or ballot papers? Let the people know.”

Regarding cooperative society elections, he alleged, “In these elections, the current Congress-led administration cut off electricity to voters at midnight the day before polling, preventing them from voting the next morning. Even our party's MLC Bojegowda faced this issue. After engaging in such despicable illegal activities, they claim victory in cooperative society elections. In Hassan district, everything is secure because Revanna is strong. I have witnessed how elections are conducted elsewhere,” he claimed.

Legislative Council party leader S.L. Bojegowda, former ministers S.R. Mahesh and H.K. Kumaraswamy, MLA Swaroop Prakash, former MLA Lingesh, and several other party leaders were in attendance.