Bengaluru: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah today warned that strict action will be taken against those who attempt to disturb peace during Tipu Jayanti in the name of religion and caste. Alleging that the Opposition BJP, when in power, had supported the celebrations he said that the party was unnecessarily raking up the issue and trying to create trouble. "BJP is adopting double standards.
When in power senior leader including formeer Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar, former Deputy Chief Minister R Ashok and other leaders had participated and celebrated Tipu Jayanti, but now opposing it as though it was Congress which has started the programme," he added. Talking to newsmen here, Mr Siddaramaiah claimed that with Assembly elections due next year, the BJP was raking up issues which were irrelevant and was attempting to disturb peace in the State.
Referring to BJP Lok Sabha member Pratap Simha's statement that those who appreciate Tipu Sultan should be hanged, Mr Siddaramaiah said that "the statement was uncalled for and shows that he has no respect to the country's Constitution on which he took Oath after getting elected. Clarifying that the programme will be held irrespective of opposition protest, Mr Siddaramaiah said that BJP just for name sake should not indulge in activities which in turn affects their own party image.
Referring to recent raids by IT officials on Congress leaders, ministers and State Officers, Mr Siddaramaiah said that the raids clearly showed that it was politically motivated. "Why IT raids were not held against BJP State President B S Yeddyurappa or BJP Lok Sabha member Shobha Kharandlje or any other leaders of that party.
Does it mean that they are all very clean and not indulged in corruption' he questioned. Replying to a question, he said that a Cabinet Committee is studying the irregularities that had taken place during BJP rule in power purchase and it also includes former Power Minister Ms Shobha Kharandlje. Action will be taken after getting the report by the Committee., the Chief Minister said. (UNI)
