Bengaluru
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday criticised the Congress‑led Karnataka government for ignoring the rising “I Love Mohammad” campaign, calling for immediate action. Speaking at Jagannath Bhavan in Bengaluru, former Deputy Chief Minister C.N. Ashwath Narayan said the state must prioritise public harmony over issues like voter fraud.
Ashwath Narayan urged the government to act against those promoting such campaigns, warning they could provoke communal unrest. “Innocents should not become victims of such attempts,” he said. He accused the government of failing to maintain peace, provide basic facilities, and ensure quality education. He questioned the purpose of the campaign and said it aimed to create division.
The remarks come after a stone‑pelting incident in Belagavi during an ‘Urus’ procession, where “I Love Mohammad” slogans were raised. Police detained 11 people and tightened security ahead of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s visit. Police confirmed video evidence showed youths chanting slogans and engaging in violence.
Ashwath Narayan also raised concerns about the caste census in Karnataka, questioning whether the state had authority to conduct it. He alleged cancellation of below‑poverty‑line cards and certificates would harm welfare benefits, turning the survey into a burden. He accused Congress leaders of dividing society for political gain and warned against creating caste and language‑based rifts.
He appealed for communal harmony, stating, “Instead of ignoring these issues, the government must act now to protect peace and unity in the state.”