Mangaluru: Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara said action has already been initiated in connection with the recent stone-pelting incident targeting a Hindu household in Chikkamagaluru, and that police authorities are proceeding strictly in accordance with the law.
Responding to media queries, he stated that the case is being handled with due seriousness and that appropriate legal provisions are being invoked based on the background of the victim and the nature of the offence. According to preliminary information available with the department, the girl involved in the case belongs to the Dalit community, and therefore police will register the matter under the Protection of Civil Rights (PCR) Act along with other applicable sections.
He emphasised that law enforcement agencies have been directed to ensure a fair and prompt investigation and to prevent any escalation of tension arising from the incident.
Case to be booked under PCR Act
The Home Minister said that once the social background of the victim was verified, instructions were given to proceed under the PCR Act, which deals with offences related to civil rights violations. He added that legal classification of cases is done based on verified facts and established procedure, not public speculation.
Police teams have reportedly collected initial evidence and statements, and further steps will follow as per statutory process. Officials are also monitoring the local situation to ensure peace and order are maintained.
He reiterated that the government will not tolerate targeted violence and that any individual or group found responsible will face legal consequences.
No issue with MLAs travelling abroad, says minister
Addressing questions about Congress MLAs travelling abroad ahead of the State Budget, Parameshwara said he was not aware of the specific purpose of their trips but made it clear that legislators are free to travel using their personal funds.
He said MLAs do not play a direct role in drafting the Budget document. The Budget, he explained, is prepared by the Chief Minister and the Finance Department after considering inputs gathered through official consultations.
According to him, MLAs share their suggestions and expectations during Congress Legislature Party (CLP) meetings, and these views are compiled and reviewed during the Budget preparation process. Beyond that, their personal travel plans do not amount to any violation.
He also dismissed speculation about internal differences, stating that there is no conflict within the party over such visits and that members are entitled to their individual schedules.
Personal views on RSS row
Commenting on the controversy surrounding remarks made by Minister Priyank Kharge about the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, the Home Minister described them as personal opinions.
He said each leader is entitled to hold and express individual views, and there is no need for him to react to every such statement. He added that political debate and ideological differences are part of democratic functioning, and not every comment requires an official government position.
He maintained that governance and administration remain the government’s primary focus, regardless of political controversies.
Remarks on Dalit Chief Minister demand
Responding to statements made by Minister H C Mahadevappa regarding the possibility of a Dalit Chief Minister in the future, Parameshwara said those remarks reflect a personal opinion.
He described Mahadevappa as a capable leader who can shoulder major responsibilities and said democratic systems allow individuals to voice their preferences. Expressing support for a particular leader, he noted, does not automatically translate into a leadership decision.
He underlined that leadership choices are ultimately made through an established party system involving the high command. Slogans or public endorsements alone are not sufficient grounds for such decisions.
At present, he said, there is no active discussion underway regarding a change in leadership and the government remains focused on administration and governance priorities. He urged party workers and leaders to concentrate on delivery and public service rather than speculation.
Governance focus to continue
The Home Minister concluded by saying that issues relating to law and order, social harmony, and welfare governance are being closely monitored. Sensitive incidents are being handled through proper legal channels, while political debates will continue within democratic limits.
He stressed that the government’s approach remains guided by law, procedure, and institutional decision-making.