Date : 30-01-2024
Mandya: Former Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy expresses his strong disapproval towards the removal of the Hanuman Flag in Keragodu village, alleging this was an act of arrogance on the part of the Congress government.
Adorned in a saffron shawl, the minister made his speech at the gathering of protestors, criticizing the government for its role in it. He further observed how heightened tensions among the masses led to law enforcement with lathi charges and other such demonstrations, injuring those around and claiming the eyesight of one such victim.
The minister further expressed his concern by challenging the authorities. He questioned their actions in the situation, remarking, “Should someone lose an eye due to your actions? Would the District Superintendent of Police give him eyes? Be cautious, police. The duration of your strategies will be observed. We are resolute against complying with unjust directives.”
Kumaraswamy further called for the suspension of the Mandya DC, which he held responsible for and attributed to the entire turmoil in Keragodu. Drawing parallels to the burning of Lanka with the divine wrath of Hanuman, he warned those responsible in the incident of a similar fate. The minister further chided the authorities, saying, “Mere association with the name Rama is insufficient; one must embody the virtues of Rama.”
Labeling the baton charge as evidence of the government’s authoritarian inclinations, he issued a stern warning to the Siddaramaiah government. “Rectify your errors. “Physical assault under the influence of power will not conclude this struggle,” asserted Kumaraswamy, urging officials to seek redemption for their actions.
Highlighting that the protest was not motivated by political interests, he criticized the authorities for allegedly fabricating information on the flagpole incident, calling for an immediate peace meeting in Keragodu. The minister then advocated for the reinstatement of the flag, with a warning that the resistance would persist until these demands were met.
“If public sentiment intensifies, law enforcement may find it challenging to contain them. Dissolve Section 144 before the situation escalates.” The Hanuman Flag dispute has only escalated, with many BJP JDS leaders entering into protests in various district headquarters. The lathi charge at the Mandya police which began as a mild attempt to quell the mob soon led to a scene of outrage, with an attempt to tear Congress MLA Ravi Ganiga’s flex.
Kumaraswamy instructed all officers responsible for bringing down the Hanuman flag. The BJP JDS’ protest against the baton charge at the Mandya’s Mahaveera Circle, led to two workers meeting serious head injuries. Enraged further by this incident, activists have initiated a sit-in protest on the old Bangalore-Mysore highway.
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