Team Clarion
BENGALURU – Former Karnataka deputy chief minister and senior BJP leader KS Eshwarappa has been booked for making incendiary comments concerning attempts to Islamise the country and disputes over Waqf properties in the state.
At a recent press briefing in Shimoga, Eshwarappa criticised the Congress and the Muslim community, triggering a significant backlash. The Jayanagar police station in Shimoga took the initiative to file a case suo moto, highlighting the severity of Eshwarappa’s statements, which were aimed at inciting communal unrest, media reports reaching here said on Saturday.
“Agricultural lands, temples, mutts, and even school and college properties under the Archaeology Department have been converted into Waqf properties. They haven’t spared even the village where Sir M Visvesvaraya was born. A Muslim leader is using Ambedkar’s name, claiming that Ambedkar was preparing to convert to Islam, thus insulting Ambedkar. Despite this insult, no Congress leader has questioned him. The Congress government has consistently supported Islamisation,” Eshwarappa allegedly stated, as per the complaint.
Eshwarappa also alleged that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is planning to announce a 4 per cent reservation for Muslims in government contracts.
“Are they trying to turn Hindustan into Pakistan? If this continues, a time will come when riots will erupt under the leadership of saints and sages. It wouldn’t be surprising if days come where Congress leaders are hunted down and killed,” Eshwarappa allegedly remarked.
Several circles have denounced Eshwarappa’s provocative commentary and attempts to divide the community on religious and political lines.
His contentious remarks have not only led to legal scrutiny but have also ignited a broader debate on the impact of political rhetoric on communal relations. As the community grapples with these challenging issues, the call for a measured and constructive dialogue has never been more critical.
