CM Siddaramaiah emphasizes creating Kannada-centric atmosphere in Karnataka
Bengaluru: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah reiterated the importance of fostering a Kannada-centric environment in Karnataka during a ceremony organized by the Department of Kannada and Culture. The occasion marked the Bhoomi Puja for the construction of a bronze statue of Goddess Nada Devi Bhuvaneswari Devi, near the western entrance of Vidhana Soudha, as part of the Karnataka Namakarana Suvarna Mahotsava.
Addressing the gathering, CM Siddaramaiah emphasized the significance of preserving Kannada language, culture, and heritage, urging all residents to prioritize Kannada in their daily lives.
"Speaking in Kannada should be a matter of pride for every individual residing in Karnataka," he stated passionately.
Highlighting the need for Kannadigas to embrace their mother tongue, Siddaramaiah compared the linguistic pride observed in other states such as Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala. "We must cultivate a similar reverence for Kannada," he urged, urging all residents to learn and communicate in Kannada within the state.
Regarding the statue's construction, CM Siddaramaiah set a deadline for completion by November 1, 2024, expressing confidence in the project's progress and funding. The proposed 25-foot bronze statue is expected to enhance the aesthetic appeal of Vidhana Soudha.
The ceremony was attended by Legislative Council Chairman Basavaraja Horatti, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, Kannada and Culture Minister Shivraj Thangadagi, and several MLAs.
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Chandrashekhar Swamiji apologises for remark on denying voting rights to Muslims
"If my statement has upset our Muslim brothers, I deeply regret it."
Bengaluru: Kumara Chandrashekharanath Swamiji, head of the Vishva Okkaliga Mahasansthana Mutt, has expressed regret over his controversial statement suggesting that "Muslims should be denied voting rights."
In a press release, Swamiji clarified, "Muslims are also citizens of this country. Like everyone else, they too have voting rights. If my statement yesterday has caused discomfort to our Muslim brothers, I sincerely apologise for it."
He further added, "Okkaligas are inherently tolerant of all religions. We have always treated people of every faith equally. Our Mutt maintains cordial relations with Muslims, and they frequently visit us. Similarly, we attend their weddings and other joyous occasions. Hence, there is no intolerance towards this community." Swamiji appealed to the public to disregard the controversy surrounding his remark.
The controversial statement was made during a farmers' rally, ‘Raita Gharjana,’ organised by the Bharatiya Kisan Sangh, Karnataka Pradesh, at Freedom Park, Bengaluru, on Tuesday. Addressing the gathering, Swamiji had said, "A law should be enacted to deny voting rights to the Muslim community, and the Wakf Board should be abolished."
The remark drew widespread criticism from political leaders and the public alike. Following the backlash, Swamiji issued his apology, stating, "Muslims are also citizens of this country. Like everyone else, they too have voting rights. If my statement yesterday has caused discomfort to our Muslim brothers, I sincerely apologise for it."
