BJP twisting my comments: K’taka Dy CM on ‘We don’t want Keralites’ remark
In a recent controversy, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar found himself at the center of a storm after his comments on the presence of Keralites in the state were misinterpreted. On Tuesday, Shivakumar clarified that his “we don’t want Keralites” remark was not aimed at the people of Kerala, but rather at the Kerala government’s alleged interference in the Kogilu demolition drive. The Deputy CM accused the BJP, particularly Kerala BJP chief Rajeev Chandrasekhar, of twisting his words to create a controversy.
The Kogilu demolition drive has been a contentious issue in Karnataka, with the state government facing criticism for its handling of the situation. Shivakumar’s comments, which were initially seen as a blanket statement against Keralites, were quickly seized upon by the BJP as an opportunity to attack the Karnataka government. However, Shivakumar has maintained that his words were taken out of context and that he has always enjoyed cordial ties with the people of Kerala.
Shivakumar stressed that his remark was specifically aimed at the Kerala government’s alleged interference in the Kogilu demolition drive. He claimed that the Kerala government had been trying to exert pressure on the Karnataka government to stop the demolition drive, which was seen as an attempt to encroach upon the state’s jurisdiction. Shivakumar argued that his comment was a response to this perceived interference, and not a reflection of his views on the people of Kerala.
The Deputy CM also took the opportunity to highlight his respectful relationship with Keralites. He stated that he has always respected the people of Kerala and values the cultural and economic ties between the two states. Shivakumar even went so far as to announce that he would campaign in the upcoming Kerala polls, a move that is seen as an attempt to reassure Keralites of his goodwill towards them.
The controversy surrounding Shivakumar’s comments has sparked a heated debate in the state, with many criticizing the BJP for its role in twisting the Deputy CM’s words. The opposition party has been accused of attempting to create a rift between Karnataka and Kerala, two states that have historically enjoyed good relations. The BJP’s actions have been seen as a desperate attempt to gain political mileage, rather than a genuine concern for the people of Kerala.
The incident has also raised questions about the role of politicians in shaping public discourse. Shivakumar’s comments, which were initially seen as a gaffe, have been transformed into a full-blown controversy by the BJP’s spin doctors. The episode highlights the need for greater care and nuance in public discourse, as well as the importance of verifying facts before jumping to conclusions.
In conclusion, the controversy surrounding Shivakumar’s “we don’t want Keralites” remark has been blown out of proportion by the BJP’s attempts to twist his words. The Deputy CM has clarified that his comment was aimed at the Kerala government’s alleged interference in the Kogilu demolition drive, and not at the people of Kerala. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the BJP will respond to Shivakumar’s clarification. One thing is certain, however: the people of Karnataka and Kerala deserve better than to be used as pawns in a political game.
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