Kalaburagi
State Policy and Planning Commission Vice Chairman BR Patil has strongly criticized the BJP for dragging caste and religious issues into the Mysuru Dasara festival, calling it an “insult to the Kannada cultural world.”
He said the Nadahabba Dasara is a true reflection of Karnataka’s culture and heritage, and it is commendable that the government invited Booker Prize-winning writer Banu Mushtaq to inaugurate the celebrations. “She has brought global recognition to Karnataka, and her presence is an honor to the state,” Patil said.
However, he condemned the BJP’s opposition to her selection, accusing the party of disturbing peace and harmony. “Instead of respecting achievements, they are creating unnecessary controversies and insulting a community. Don’t they remember that noted poet KS Nisar Ahmed had also inaugurated Dasara in the past?” he asked.
Patil further alleged that the BJP was ignoring pressing issues like the plight of farmers affected by rains, education of Dalits, and problems of workers and backward classes, while focusing only on caste-religion politics.
Calling the BJP’s stance “extremely unfortunate,” he appealed to the people of Karnataka to reject divisive politics and uphold the state’s inclusive cultural heritage.
