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 Keralites were misinterpreted by the BJP. On Tuesday, Shivakumar clarified his stance, stating that his “we don’t want Keralites” remark was aimed at the Kerala government’s interference in the Kogilu demolition drive, not at the people of Kerala. The Deputy Chief Minister accused Kerala BJP chief Rajeev Chandrasekhar of twisting his words, and emphasized his cordial ties with Keralites.
The controversy began when Shivakumar made a statement that was perceived as being anti-Keralite. However, he has now come out to clarify that his comments were taken out of context and were not intended to be derogatory towards the people of Kerala. According to Shivakumar, his remark was specifically targeted at the Kerala government’s attempts to interfere in the Kogilu demolition drive, which is a matter of internal concern for the state of Karnataka.
Shivakumar stressed that he has always maintained good relations with the people of Kerala and has a deep respect for them. He pointed out that he has often campaigned in Kerala during election times and has always been warmly received by the people of the state. The Deputy Chief Minister made it clear that his comments were not intended to be divisive or hurtful, but rather a response to the Kerala government’s overreach into Karnataka’s internal affairs.
The BJP, however, has been quick to capitalize on Shivakumar’s initial statement, with Kerala BJP chief Rajeev Chandrasekhar leading the charge. Chandrasekhar has accused Shivakumar of being anti-Keralite and has demanded an apology for his comments. However, Shivakumar has refused to back down, stating that he will not be intimidated by the BJP’s attempts to twist his words.
Shivakumar’s clarification has come as a relief to many who were concerned about the potential fallout of his initial statement. The people of Kerala and Karnataka have long enjoyed good relations, and it is essential that politicians do not attempt to drive a wedge between the two communities. By clarifying his stance, Shivakumar has helped to diffuse tensions and has reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining good relations with the people of Kerala.
It is worth noting that the Kogilu demolition drive has been a contentious issue, with the Karnataka government facing opposition from various quarters. The drive, which aims to demolish illegal structures in the Kogilu area, has been seen as a necessary step to maintain law and order in the state. However, the Kerala government’s attempts to interfere in the matter have been perceived as an overreach, and Shivakumar’s comments were likely a response to this perceived interference.
In conclusion, the controversy surrounding Shivakumar’s “we don’t want Keralites” remark has been a classic example of how politicians’ words can be twisted and misinterpreted. By clarifying his stance, Shivakumar has helped to set the record straight and has reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining good relations with the people of Kerala. It is essential that politicians are careful with their words and avoid making statements that can be misinterpreted. The people of Karnataka and Kerala deserve better than to be pitted against each other by politicians seeking to score cheap points.
As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the BJP will respond to Shivakumar’s clarification. However, one thing is clear: the people of Karnataka and Kerala will not be swayed by the BJP’s attempts to drive a wedge between them. The bond between the two communities is strong, and it will take more than a twisted statement to break it.
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