Karnataka BJP Leaders Detained While Protesting at CM's Residence
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Synopsis
On April 3, Karnataka BJP leaders were detained while attempting to protest at CM Siddaramaiah's residence. This demonstration, part of a larger agitation against rising prices and a Muslim quota, saw significant tension between party workers and police.
Key Takeaways
- BJP leaders detained during protest.
- Protest against price hikes and Muslim quota.
- Significant tension with police.
- Protests observed statewide.
- Former CM criticized current government’s policies.
Bengaluru, April 3 (NationPress) Numerous BJP leaders from Karnataka were detained on Thursday while attempting to encircle Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's residence as part of their continuous protest against the rising prices.
This marked the second day of their demonstration. The state president of the BJP, B.Y. Vijayendra, had urged party members to surround the CM's residence.
However, law enforcement detained these leaders en route, transporting them by bus to an undisclosed location. Some leaders were forcibly removed when they resisted, being lifted and carried to the vehicles. Tensions flared between party supporters and police during the detainment.
BJP supporters were blocked from accessing the main road from Freedom Park as they marched towards the CM’s residence. Barricades were set up by the police, and when BJP supporters attempted to climb over them, a chaotic scene unfolded.
The BJP activists also burned an effigy featuring images of CM Siddaramaiah and other ministers. Among those detained were former CM B.S. Yediyurappa, Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka, Chalavadi Narayanaswamy, and B.Y. Vijayendra.
The BJP initiated this protest on Wednesday to voice their dissent against the ongoing price hikes and to challenge the Muslim quota in government contracts. Thousands, including women, gathered at Freedom Park in Bengaluru, spending the night there. Notable attendees included Vijayendra, R. Ashoka, and Chalavadi Narayanaswamy, the Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council.
Protests have been conducted across all district and taluk headquarters.
Vijayendra stated, “Our battle against the Congress-led government is just beginning with this overnight protest. We have reached a crucial point in our movement. We are determined to lay siege to the residence of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who acts against the interests of the people, laborers, the poor, and the SC-ST communities.”
Former Chief Minister and BJP Central Parliamentary Committee member B.S. Yediyurappa addressed the crowd, saying, “Everyone can see the progress our nation is making under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. However, in Karnataka, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar have taxed everything except air. Common citizens are struggling to make ends meet.”
“This protest is just the beginning; we will persist with our statewide agitation. Mr. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, you are embezzling public funds. Irrigation projects have come to a standstill, and families across the state are in distress,” he remarked.
“We will march to encircle the CM’s residence. Let the police arrest us. I express my gratitude to all party members, particularly the women, for ensuring the success of this overnight protest,” Yediyurappa continued.
“The Siddaramaiah-led government has lost its moral authority to remain in power. CM Siddaramaiah and Dy CM Shivakumar must heed the public's sentiments and resign. I will be embarking on a statewide tour,” he declared.
While addressing party members, R. Ashoka accused CM Siddaramaiah and Dy CM Shivakumar of corruption, alleging they exploit every chance to profit. “This government is so desperate for funds that it is even profiting from death certificates by hiking fees. They have already increased fuel prices, and their next focus is on liquor taxation. Those who enjoy beer should brace for an additional Rs 50,” he stated.
“In the coming days, the state government plans to impose a tax on households based on the volume of liquid waste they produce, charging per kilogram. The Congress government raised diesel prices right after this protest began. By the time we return home today, they may have also increased water charges,” Ashoka mocked.
Chalavadi Narayanaswamy accused CM Siddaramaiah of misusing Rs 38,000 crore allocated for the welfare of SC and ST communities. “He shows no remorse for such actions. His mind is clouded with prejudice, ensuring that a 4% quota is enforced for Muslims, while reservations for oppressed classes lack the same security. Their benefits can be altered based on circumstances,” he claimed.
“Mr. Siddaramaiah, you take such liberties with marginalized communities because they do not challenge you,” Narayanaswamy criticized.
