In the wake of purported “Pakistan Zindabad” slogans raised by supporters of Congress’s Rajya Sabha winner Syed Nasir Hussain in the Vidhana Soudha corridors, the BJP intensified its pressure on the Chief Minister Siddaramaiah-led Congress government. The BJP demanded the resignation of the government, accusing it of providing protection to pro-Pakistani and anti-India elements in the state. Additionally, they called for a National Investigation Agency (NIA) probe into the incident.
Government’s Response and Opposition’s Allegations
Home Minister G. Parameshwara informed the Assembly that the police had registered a case, and action would be taken if forensic reports confirm the slogan’s utterance. However, the Leader of the Opposition, R. Ashok, criticized the government for allegedly shielding the accused and neglecting the issue. Ashok condemned what he perceived as the government’s attempt to appease the minority community for votes, demanding the suspension of the newly-elected MP and questioning the credibility of Congress’s candidate selection process.
BJP’s Protest and Opposition’s Criticism
Also read: Sources Confirm Arrest of Sheikh Shahjahan, Primary Suspect in Sandeshkhali Case
In a show of opposition, BJP members staged a protest march from the Legislators’ Home to the Vidhana Soudha, denouncing the Congress. They accused Congress of failing to protect the Constitution and the state’s people, questioning the security arrangements at Vidhana Soudha and alleging that Congress arranged vehicles to transport their supporters. Former Minister V. Sunil Kumar criticized Congress leaders for what he described as their divisive tactics along religious lines, condemning their alleged leniency towards incidents of terror activities in the past.
Parliamentary Chaos and Dissatisfaction with Government’s Response
Inside the Assembly, BJP members expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s response, demanding stronger action. Speaker U.T. Khader condemned the incident and urged the government to take appropriate action. However, BJP members continued their protest, prompting the Speaker to adjourn the House for the day without addressing any scheduled agenda items.
Continued Opposition Action
Meanwhile, the BJP announced plans to meet Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot to petition for the dismissal of the Congress government. Leader of the Opposition R. Ashok affirmed that their protest would persist until the person responsible for the slogan was apprehended.
