Are Minorities Right to be Concerned? K'taka Dy CM Shivakumar on Mangaluru Unrest

Bengaluru, May 30 (NationPress) The Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka and State Congress President, D.K. Shivakumar, addressed the tense atmosphere in Mangaluru arising from communal conflicts. He emphasized that the local minority communities are deeply worried about the current state of affairs and accused the BJP of exacerbating tensions.

While interacting with the media near Vidhana Soudha and the Palace Grounds, Shivakumar remarked on Friday, “The minority groups are voicing their concerns, and I am dispatching a team to Mangaluru to tackle the pressing issues. This team will arrive on Saturday to compile a report on measures that can be implemented to stabilize the situation. Administrative officials will be responsible for making the decisions. I have requested a comprehensive report after consulting with individuals from all walks of life.”

“This situation is alarming, and our administration is committed to taking every feasible action. We intend to restore order in coastal Karnataka. The BJP is actively provoking unrest in the state, along with the involvement of other organizations,” Shivakumar highlighted.

The ongoing communal violence is inflicting significant harm on the coastal region, leading to losses not just for Mangaluru but for Karnataka as a whole, he added.

“We are implementing necessary measures to safeguard all communities. Our party has organized a team instructed to deliver a comprehensive report. While officials will present their versions, I have urged our party members to interact with the public and compile a report based on those discussions,” he reiterated.

“Restoring peace in the coastal region is imperative. This situation extends beyond a few casualties. The entire coastal area is suffering immensely. Residents are living in fear, and investors are reluctant to engage in the region. It’s crucial for everyone to recognize this reality. I urge BJP supporters and various organizations to understand the seriousness of the situation,” Shivakumar asserted.

When questioned about the ongoing unrest despite officer transfers, he responded: “We are managing to control the situation. The BJP and several organizations are inciting communal discord in this region and across Karnataka. They must acknowledge that the repercussions will ultimately affect Karnataka and Mangaluru. Many talented youths from the area are already migrating elsewhere in search of employment. We are striving to create job opportunities locally.”

When asked about claims regarding local officers' inadequate responses, he stated: “Our government is treating this issue with the utmost seriousness, and the officers are indeed responsive.”

In reference to a JD (S) social media post about its leaders potentially joining Congress, Shivakumar commented: “Why should their leaders be concerned? They are not a unified party; they are already collaborating with another faction. They are free to align with anyone they choose. People, party members, and leaders are eager to join us. How can we refuse them?”