Is Minister Priyank Kharge Engaging in Hooliganism?
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Synopsis
In Kalaburagi, Karnataka, the BJP's protest against Minister Priyank Kharge raises significant political tensions. As allegations of hooliganism and misconduct surface, the clash between party leaders escalates into a larger discourse on power dynamics and representation among Dalit leaders. Discover the unfolding drama and its implications on local politics.
Key Takeaways
- Karnataka BJP protests highlight political tensions.
- Priyank Kharge faces serious allegations of misconduct.
- Dalit representation issues are at the forefront.
- Calls for action against police and political leaders.
- Significant implications for local governance.
Kalaburagi (Karnataka), May 24 (NationPress) - The Karnataka BJP organized a significant protest in Kalaburagi on Saturday, targeting Minister Priyank Kharge and accusing him of hooliganism against the Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council, Chalavadi Narayanaswamy.
Priyank Kharge, the son of AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge, is from the Kalaburagi district.
The large-scale ‘Kalaburagi Chalo’ protest rally took place near the Deputy Commissioner’s office circle and was led by BJP state president and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra. The BJP stated that the demonstration aimed to condemn Priyank Kharge’s alleged misconduct and unconstitutional actions.
Following Chalavadi Narayanaswamy's comparison of Priyank Kharge to a “dog,” supporters of Kharge reportedly surrounded and detained Narayanaswamy for five hours, demanding an apology. The BJP delegation subsequently approached Governor Thawarchand Gehlot, urging for the removal of Priyank Kharge from the state cabinet.
Speaking to the crowd, Chalavadi Narayanaswamy emphasized, “If there’s any true Dalit, it’s me. I’ve endured hardship, having slept on mats and the bare ground, and drank from ponds. I wasn’t born into privilege,” he said, targeting Priyank Kharge.
“Though AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge faced difficulties in the past, I am now being denied my rightful place,” Narayanaswamy claimed.
“During the incident in Chittapur, even with 300-400 police present, they did not act against those attempting to attack me,” he criticized. “This is a conspiracy orchestrated by Priyank Kharge,” he added.
He also accused police of being ready to lathi-charge BJP workers and demanded they adhere to constitutional protocols, cautioning them against becoming subservient.
“I am not a privileged Dalit, lacking property and power. I dedicated 40 years to the Congress. In Gurmitkal, Mallikarjun Kharge has won nine times—yet not a single Dalit leader has emerged from there?” he questioned.
“Wherever the Kharges go, not even grass grows,” he mocked.
“I was the one who elevated your name,” he reminded Priyank Kharge.
“We submitted a petition to Rahul Gandhi for Kharge to be made Chief Minister. Yet you said the CM’s post shouldn't be given in the name of Dalits. Why then contest from a reserved Dalit constituency?” he interrogated.
“How long will you cling to power? I entered politics the same year you were born. You’ve received a Congress B-form four times; why not me? Is your father’s prominence the only reason?” Narayanaswamy sarcastically questioned.
“Without the Kharge name, Priyank wouldn’t even win a Mandal Panchayat election,” he criticized.
“You’ve been a minister thrice. Why has S.M. Narayanaswamy, who won four times from Bangarpet, never become a minister?” he asked.
“Why haven’t Prasad Abbayya or Shivanna, both of whom won three times, been appointed as ministers? Are they not deserving?” he questioned, accusing Priyank Kharge of suppressing such individuals.
“Dalits in Congress are now silenced,” he added, noting that some have privately reached out to him.
He reiterated, “The Congress has defeated and humiliated Babasaheb Dr B.R. Ambedkar—absolutely.”
N. Ravikumar, Chief Whip of the Opposition in the Legislative Council, remarked, “Chalavadi Narayanaswamy was not only insulted but also barred from holding a Tiranga Yatra in Chittapur. Is Kalaburagi in India or Pakistan? Priyank Kharge must be removed, and responsible police officers should be suspended.”
Priyank Kharge represents the Chittapur Assembly seat.
Govind Karajol, BJP MP and former Deputy CM, stated, “When Rahul Gandhi labeled Prime Minister Modi as 'chowkidar chor hai’, Mallikarjun Kharge compared him to a venomous snake. Congress leaders are now living in fear. You treat everyone as you did Chalavadi Narayanaswamy and other party members. Cease these lowly acts and operate within the Constitution, or the public will respond accordingly.”
Basavaraj Mattimood, BJP MLA, charged, “Only Priyank Kharge’s administration is operational here. Officials are stifled. The district has seen no development, with rising crime rates, including murders.”
Former MP Muniswamy stated, “The Kharge family, including Mallikarjun and Priyank, aims to maintain strict control over Kalaburagi by utilizing inept police officers. It’s evident that Congress is anti-SC, anti-ST, and anti-Dalit. Kalaburagi is not a gift to the Kharge family; it belongs to us.”
Point of View
The recent protests against Minister Priyank Kharge highlight the growing tensions between parties. The BJP's allegations of hooliganism reflect deeper issues regarding representation and power within local governance. It's crucial for all parties to engage in constructive dialogue to ensure that the voices of all communities are heard and respected.
NationPress
01/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the reason for the protest in Kalaburagi?
The protest was organized by the Karnataka BJP against Minister Priyank Kharge, accusing him of hooliganism against Leader of the Opposition, Chalavadi Narayanaswamy.
Who is Chalavadi Narayanaswamy?
Chalavadi Narayanaswamy is the Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council and a key figure in the recent protests against Minister Priyank Kharge.
What were the allegations against Priyank Kharge?
Priyank Kharge was accused of misconduct and hooliganism, particularly in connection with an incident involving Chalavadi Narayanaswamy.
What did Narayanaswamy say about his background?
Narayanaswamy emphasized his struggles and hardships, asserting that he represents true Dalit identity, contrasting it with Priyank Kharge's privileged background.
What actions did BJP leaders demand from the government?
BJP leaders called for the removal of Priyank Kharge from his ministerial position and the suspension of police officers involved in the incident.
