Will Karnataka Congress Protest Against the Centre Over the National Herald Case and MGNREGA Name Change?
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Synopsis
Karnataka Congress is gearing up for a major protest against the Centre's perceived overreach, particularly in light of the recent dismissal of the National Herald case involving key party figures. The protest also aims to defend the integrity of the MGNREGA name, which holds significant historical value. Join us as we explore the implications of these actions.
Key Takeaways
- Karnataka Congress plans a significant protest in Belagavi.
- The protest addresses concerns about the National Herald case.
- Participants include key political figures from the Congress.
- The event aims to draw attention to the MGNREGA name change.
- Similar protests are expected nationwide.
Belagavi (Karnataka), Dec 16 (NationPress) The Karnataka Congress has declared plans for a dharna (protest) in front of the Mahatma Gandhi statue at the Suvarna Vidhana Soudha in Belagavi on Wednesday, denouncing what they describe as the abuse of power by the Centre.
During a press briefing at the Suvarna Vidhana Soudha late on Tuesday night, Deputy Chief Minister and KPCC President D.K. Shivakumar stated that this protest is being organized against the recent court decision that dismissed the National Herald case involving Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi, which he claims reveals the overreach of the Centre.
He further noted that the demonstration will also challenge the proposed alteration of the name of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGA).
“Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, myself, and all MLAs and MLCs will convene at the Mahatma Gandhi statue to express our dissent,” the Deputy CM confirmed.
“All our MLAs will join the protest, which will also take place throughout Bengaluru. Following the demonstration, there should be a discussion on this matter in the Assembly, and it must be officially documented. We are making preparations for that and will later disclose our strategy for raising the issue in the Assembly,” Shivakumar mentioned.
“I urge all legislators to mobilize protests at district headquarters and taluk centers against the removal of the MGNREGA name and to denounce hate politics,” he added.
“My brother D.K. Suresh and I were scheduled to meet the Delhi Police on Monday regarding the National Herald case. We had requested a copy of the FIR first. However, the Enforcement Directorate proceeded to file the chargesheet without an FIR being registered in the National Herald case,” he explained.
“According to the law, an FIR must be registered first. The National Herald is an asset of the Congress party. This asset has been taken over, and Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi have faced immense harassment. Complaints were filed based on a petition from senior politician Subramanian Swamy against Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Sam Pitroda, and the Young Indian organization. We are party members and had made contributions to support the organization,” he stated.
“We have faced repeated summons from the ED for inquiries. We requested time until next week to present documents. The court has dismissed the case, declaring it legally invalid. This serves as a testament that the judiciary is still functioning in the country,” Shivakumar emphasized.
“This highlights the misuse of power. We are commemorating 100 years since Mahatma Gandhi took over as the president of the AICC in Belagavi. The MGNREGA program honored him, and now there is an effort to erase his name. Given this context, our struggle is unavoidable,” he declared.
“The National Herald newspaper was founded by former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru in 1937. It is an asset of the Congress party. Naturally, the shares are held in the name of the Congress president and were never intended to be personal property. Contributions were made by Congress leaders and supporters. Who else would contribute?” Shivakumar questioned.
“The dismissal of the case reinforces confidence in the judiciary, and I welcome it. I urge all legislators to put aside their duties and join the protest in Belagavi,” he concluded.
Shivakumar mentioned that similar protests will also take place in Delhi and across the nation.
Point of View
It's crucial to acknowledge the political tensions arising from the Karnataka Congress's planned protest. This event reflects broader concerns regarding the misuse of authority and the political landscape in India. The issues at hand, including the National Herald case and the MGNREGA name change, resonate with many citizens, highlighting the ongoing struggle for justice and representation. It is essential to report on these developments with a balanced perspective, ensuring that all viewpoints are represented while maintaining journalistic integrity.
NationPress
16/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main reason for the Karnataka Congress's protest?
The protest is primarily against the perceived misuse of power by the Centre, particularly in light of the dismissal of the National Herald case involving Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi, as well as the attempt to change the MGNREGA name.
Where and when will the protest take place?
The protest will take place in front of the Mahatma Gandhi statue at Suvarna Vidhana Soudha in Belagavi on Wednesday.
Who will participate in the protest?
Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, all MLAs and MLCs of the Karnataka Congress will participate, alongside supporters from across Bengaluru.
What are the implications of the National Herald case dismissal?
The dismissal of the National Herald case is seen as a victory for Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi, reinforcing the belief in judicial integrity, while also raising questions about the legal actions taken by the Enforcement Directorate.
Will similar protests occur in other locations?
Yes, similar protests are planned in Delhi and other parts of the country to amplify the Karnataka Congress's message.
