Bengaluru: Karnataka opposition leader R. Ashoka on Sunday accused the Congress government of indulging in “vote bank politics” by withdrawing cases against those accused in communal riot incidents in Kalaburagi district, claiming the move threatens the security of the state.
Speaking to reporters, Ashoka alleged that the state government had withdrawn cases related to attacks on police personnel near the Ladle Mashak Dargah in Aland, vandalism involving a minister’s car, and other communal clashes linked to the dargah issue.
He claimed that cases against nearly 150 accused persons, including those allegedly associated with the Popular Front of India, had been dropped. “The ministers and the chief minister, who took oath under the Constitution, have acted against constitutional principles,” Ashoka alleged.
The BJP leader further accused the Congress of sending a message that support would be extended even to those involved in violent activities in exchange for votes. “Such actions pose a threat to the security of the country,” he said.
Ashoka also alleged that illegal Bangladeshi immigrants were entering the country and contributing to communal unrest. He warned that the BJP would launch protests if the government did not reconsider its decision.
Criticising the Congress government’s minority welfare policies, Ashoka referred to the decision allowing hijab in educational institutions and the allocation of nearly Rs 600 crore for the Muslim community, alleging that the ruling party was attempting to appease minorities for electoral gains.
“It is justified if cases against farmers and pro-Kannada activists are withdrawn. But on whose behalf were those involved in communal riots fighting?” he asked, calling the move a “betrayal of the majority community”.
