Did CM Siddaramaiah Really Advocate for Peace Instead of War with Pakistan?

Bengaluru, April 27 (NationPress) In light of the comments made by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah regarding avoiding conflict with Pakistan following the tragic Pahalgam terror attack that resulted in the death of 26 individuals, the Karnataka BJP has sharply criticized him, claiming he acts as a puppet of the enemy nation.

Leader of Opposition R. Ashoka took to social media, sharing a clip from a Pakistani news outlet that featured CM Siddaramaiah’s remarks. He referred to the CM as 'Pakistan Ratna' and remarked in Kannada (translated loosely), 'Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, you’ve gained global notoriety in Pakistan overnight due to your childish and absurd statements.'

Ashoka continued, 'Congratulations! If you ever visit Pakistan, a royal welcome awaits you. It wouldn’t be surprising if the Pakistani government recognizes you as a great ambassador of peace and honors you with their highest civilian award, the Nishan-e-Pakistan.'

During a period of heightened tensions and the looming threat of war, Ashoka asserted, 'you are acting like a puppet of an enemy nation. The existence of public figures like you is one of this country's greatest misfortunes.'

In response to discussions surrounding potential military action against Pakistan after the Pahalgam attack, CM Siddaramaiah stated to reporters in Mysuru on Saturday, 'There is currently no need to declare war on Pakistan.'

'We must focus on strict security measures. Waging war is not the solution. Peace must prevail, and citizens should feel secure with effective security arrangements from the Central government.'

When questioned regarding the Central government’s acknowledgment of a security lapse in Pahalgam, the Chief Minister remarked, 'I have spoken the truth regarding the security lapses preceding the Pahalgam terror incident. Adequate measures should have been in place. This was a tourist destination frequented by many, and previously, 40 soldiers lost their lives in Pulwama, necessitating extreme caution.'

He further noted, 'Both intelligence and security failures occurred. The public believed they were safe, but the Central government failed to provide adequate security. The trust placed in them was misplaced.'

'What actions can bring back the 26 lives lost in the Pahalgam attack?' CM Siddaramaiah questioned.

When asked about reports indicating a lack of security personnel at the site, he stated, 'I’m not sure yet. I need to consult State Labour Minister Santosh Lad, who was dispatched to Kashmir after the Pahalgam incident, to gather insights.'

Minister Lad has successfully evacuated all stranded Karnataka residents from Jammu and Kashmir.

On the subject of deporting Pakistani nationals from the state, CM Siddaramaiah remarked, 'We will cooperate. Necessary information will be shared with the Central government, and steps will be initiated for their repatriation. I lack detailed knowledge about the presence of Pakistani nationals across Karnataka cities, but it’s noted that a significant number live in Bengaluru.'

Criticizing the Prime Minister, CM Siddaramaiah stated, 'The Prime Minister should have attended the all-party meeting convened in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror incident. They are misleading the populace. What’s more critical — campaigning for the Bihar elections or attending the all-party meeting?'