Political Controversy Erupts Over Karnataka Deputy CM's Remarks on Kerala Residents
A political storm has erupted in Karnataka following Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar's remarks about Kerala residents during a demolition campaign discussion. His comments, which suggested that Karnataka does not need anyone from Kerala, have drawn sharp criticism from the BJP, who labeled them as anti-Kerala. The controversy intensified as BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawala questioned the Congress party's stance on Shivakumar's statements, highlighting the ongoing tensions between political factions. This incident raises questions about the Congress's position and its implications for upcoming elections in the region.
Dec 30, 2025, 17:10 IST
Political Tensions Rise in Karnataka
A political uproar has emerged following comments made by Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar regarding residents of Kerala, in relation to the demolition campaign in Bengaluru. The controversy ignited when a journalist inquired about Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's criticism of the demolitions. Vijayan labeled the actions as minority-targeted aggressive politics, drawing parallels to a 'bulldozer raj' and accusing authorities of targeting Muslim residents.
In response to a question about Kerala's involvement, Shivakumar stated, 'We do not need anyone from Kerala. Our Chief Minister is there; let him do his job.' This remark drew immediate backlash, with the BJP branding it as anti-Kerala. BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawala questioned whether the Congress leadership in Kerala supported Shivakumar's statement, asserting that it disrespected the state. He also asked if senior Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra agreed with this sentiment.
Poonawala remarked that the conflict between the Left and Congress has escalated to the point where Shivakumar is openly making anti-Kerala and anti-Malayali statements. He emphasized the need for clarity from the Congress party regarding their stance on Shivakumar's comments, especially from those contesting elections in Kerala but not originally from the state. He criticized the Congress for its contradictory stance on bulldozer actions, opposing them in Uttar Pradesh while supporting similar measures in Karnataka.
Accusing Congress of relying on foreign influences, Poonawala claimed that the INC now stands for 'Islamabad National Congress' rather than 'Indian National Congress.' He criticized the party for failing to sing the national anthem properly on its foundation day, suggesting that their allegiance lies more with Italy and Rome than with India, leading to such errors.