Bengaluru: A recent statement by Karnataka Congress leader, Holalkere Anjaneya, comparing Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to Lord Ram has stirred controversy in the state. Anjaneya stated that the idol to be installed at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya would be “BJP’s Ram,” and that Siddaramaiah is “our Ram.” He suggested that the Chief Minister need not attend the consecration event in Ayodhya but could pay respects at a Ram temple in his native village.
Anjaneya’s remarks came after Siddaramaiah mentioned he hadn’t decided on attending the Ram Temple event due to the absence of a formal invitation. BJP leader Basanagouda Patil Yatnal criticized Anjaneya, labeling his statement as anti-Hindu. Yatnal expressed disapproval, stating that such individuals with an “anti-Hindu” stance had been ministers in the state.
In contrast, former Congress chief Sonia Gandhi is slated to attend the Ram Mandir inauguration event on January 22. The comments by Anjaneya have fueled political tensions in Karnataka, with the BJP accusing Congress leaders of disrespecting Hindu sentiments.
