Joshi challenges K’taka CM over alleged religion-based housing quota

Hubballi

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi on Sunday launched a sharp attack on the Karnataka government, challenging Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to publicly release an alleged circular that reportedly grants 15% reservation for Muslims under housing schemes. Speaking to reporters in Hubballi, Joshi asserted that no such directive had been issued by the Union government and accused the Congress-led state administration of playing "appeasement politics."

“The Union government has never issued any circular offering religion-based reservation. If the Chief Minister has such a document, he must release it publicly. Otherwise, stop misleading the people,” Joshi said.

He claimed that the Congress government is engaged in systematic favoritism, particularly towards the Muslim community, under the guise of welfare. “They are intentionally spreading misinformation to consolidate vote banks. From 4% reservation in contract jobs, Shaadi Bhagya schemes, crores allocated to Urdu schools, and up to ₹30 lakh in loans for overseas education of Muslim students—these are targeted benefits. Why don’t we see such schemes for Hindus or other communities?” Joshi questioned.

The minister criticized what he called the selective implementation of welfare programmes, arguing that public funds should not be distributed based on religious identity. “This is not inclusive governance; it’s deliberate discrimination,” he added.

Joshi also expressed concern over a recent police notice served to writer and speaker Chakravarthy Sulibele, who was reportedly warned against making political statements. Joshi strongly condemned the move, calling it an attack on free speech.

“The SP who issued the notice seems completely unaware of constitutional freedoms. Sulibele, like any citizen, has the right to express his views. I speak about politics every day—let them file a case against me too, if they dare,” Joshi said defiantly.

The Union Minister’s remarks have intensified the ongoing political debate in Karnataka, with both BJP and Congress accusing each other of distorting welfare for political gain. The state government has yet to respond officially to Joshi’s demands.