‘..ask his mother…’: BJP’s Shobha Karandlaje  attacks Karnataka minister over anti-Hindu Rashtra stand

Mysuru: BJP leader and Union Minister of State Shobha Karandlaje has drawn criticism for her personal attack on Karnataka Urban Development Minister Dr Yathindra Siddaramaiah over his opposition to turning India into a Hindu Rashtra.

Speaking to reporters after visiting the Chamundeshwari Temple atop Mysuru’s Chamundi Hills on Ashadha Friday, Karandlaje told Yathindra to learn about India’s culture, religion and traditions from his mother. She invoked his family while making the remark, pointing out that Yathindra was raised by his mother, the wife of former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, and suggesting that she would provide him with the answers he needed.

Karandlaje also invoked the temple visit to express her hope that Goddess Chamundeshwari would empower those seeking to protect the country’s culture and religion.

Her remarks came after Yathindra firmly opposed the Hindu Rashtra concept, arguing that India cannot be sustained as a nation on the basis of religion. He warned that declaring India a Hindu Rashtra could revive caste-based discrimination and social exploitation.

Yathindra defended his position as being within the constitutional framework and said he remained firm that India should never become a Hindu Rashtra.

The exchange has intensified a political dispute over the idea of a Hindu Rashtra, with Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge also accusing BJP leaders of ignoring Dr B.R. Ambedkar’s warnings and views on the issue while celebrating his legacy.