Bengaluru: Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka, D.K. Shivakumar, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to justice for all communities amidst the ongoing reservation dispute with the Panchamasali Lingayat community. He assured that further discussions would be held with community leaders, despite legal constraints limiting government intervention.
“We want justice for every community. However, since the reservation matter is currently sub judice, the government cannot interfere at this stage,” Shivakumar told reporters after meeting with Panchamasali leaders on Friday. “Once the elections conclude and the Model Code of Conduct is lifted, we will resume talks with them.”
Legacy of BJP’s Reservation Policy Complicates Matter
Shivakumar criticized the previous BJP government for mishandling reservation reforms, saying, “In their haste, they hurt many communities. Afterward, they filed an affidavit in court stating that the new reservation wouldn’t be implemented. In this scenario, our government has limited options regarding court matters.”
Addressing community leaders’ intent to continue protests, Shivakumar remarked, “We respect everyone’s right to protest. We can’t stop those who wish to express their grievances in this way.”
Rebuttal to Kumaraswamy’s Criticism
Shivakumar also dismissed allegations from Union Minister and JD(S) leader H.D. Kumaraswamy, who labeled the Special Investigation Team (SIT) as the “Shivakumar Investigation Team.” Responding with humor, Shivakumar said, “Kumaraswamy needs to think about me once in a while, or he won’t sleep well. If they need my documents, I’ll gladly provide them—they are already with the CBI.”
On ED’s Actions and MUDA Case
Commenting on the recent ED activity involving the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA), Shivakumar downplayed the event. “This is not a raid; they are merely gathering information. The documents in question are already public, so tampering isn’t possible. We will respond to this legally and keep the public informed.”
He reiterated his stance that the ED’s actions appeared politically motivated but maintained that the matter was now in court. “I have heard they requested certain documents, but I am unsure if those have been submitted. If needed, they may collect the documents directly from MUDA.”
Jibe on NICE Corridor Assets
The Deputy CM also addressed ongoing statements surrounding the revival of the NICE corridor project. Taking a dig at Kumaraswamy, he quipped, “Let him first declare his assets along the NICE road. I will speak at the appropriate time.”
