Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Monday accused the opposition BJP and Janata Dal (Secular) of attempting to incite public unrest over the removal of a saffron flag hoisted on a 108-ft tall flagpole in Keragodu village, Mandya district.
The flag had been raised by government authorities, and the Chief Minister alleged that the opposition's actions were politically motivated ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.
Addressing the controversy, Siddaramaiah refuted that the authorities had only obtained permission to hoist the national and Kannada flags, not the saffron flag bearing Lord Hanuman's image. He also responded to the BJP's accusations of him being "anti-Hindu," asserting his Hindu identity and emphasising his inclusive approach towards people of all religions.
The situation in Keragodu remained tense but manageable on Monday, a day after witnessing protests and police intervention following the removal of the saffron flag. The police had resorted to a lathi charge to disperse the protesting crowd and restore order.
Accusing the BJP and JD(S) of provoking the situation for political gain, Siddaramaiah stated, "BJP is unnecessarily creating things to promote their agenda. The permission was taken to hoist the national flag or Kannada flag. We are not opposed to any flag."
Highlighting the opposition's role in the protests, Leader of Opposition R Ashoka (BJP) and state JD(S) chief H D Kumaraswamy joined the demonstration, with Siddaramaiah alleging their involvement in instigating the public.
Responding to the BJP's characterization of him as "anti-Hindu" and "anti-Hanuman Dwaja," Siddaramaiah defended his beliefs, stating, "I'm a Hindu. I love all people from all religions. What does secularism mean? What is said in the Constitution? Coexistence and tolerance. I believe in it."
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