The newly formed Congress government in Karnataka is determined to review and rectify policies implemented by the previous Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government, according to Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge. He emphasized the intention to reverse decisions related to the Muslim quota, the ban on the Hijab, and the anti-conversion law.
Mr. Kharge stated unequivocally, “Any bill, executive order, or government order that is regressive to Karnataka’s economic policies, fails to create employment, or creates disharmony in the state will be reviewed or rejected if necessary.” These comments highlight the government’s commitment to undoing policies deemed detrimental to the state.
The Congress party achieved a significant victory in the recent elections, comfortably defeating the BJP. Last week, Siddaramaiah assumed office as Chief Minister, with DK Shivakumar serving as his deputy.
When asked about the specific legislation that is likely to be reevaluated by the Siddaramaiah-led government, Mr. Kharge mentioned the anti-conversion law and the anti-cow slaughter bill. He cited the opinion of the Finance Department, which considered these bills regressive and estimated a loss of ₹5,000 crore ($677 million) due to the anti-cow slaughter legislation. The minister argued that the anti-conversion bill infringed upon the right to privacy.
Mr. Kharge avoided directly responding to whether the Congress would fulfill its promise to ban organizations like the Bajrang Dal, known for spreading hate, during the election campaign. He emphasized the importance of providing good governance, ensuring progress for Karnataka, and taking strong action against those involved in unconstitutional activities or causing disharmony within the framework of the law and the Constitution.
The BJP launched a significant offensive in response to the Congress’s promise to ban the Bajrang Dal, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi accusing the party of insulting Lord Hanuman. The Congress later clarified that banning the Bajrang Dal would fall under the purview of the central government.
Regarding the Hijab ban in educational institutions, Mr. Kharge hinted at the possibility of the Congress government overturning it. He expressed concern about the high number of out-of-school children and stressed the responsibility of the government to provide education for all, suggesting the need to remove any obstacles hindering this objective.
In terms of reservation policies, Mr. Kharge criticized the BJP government’s decision to revoke Muslim reservations and replace them with quotas for Lingayats and Vokkaligas. He highlighted the dissatisfaction among various communities and religions and emphasized the need to restore social and economic equality.
Mr. Kharge dismissed suggestions that the Congress’s actions were solely aimed at appeasing Muslim voters ahead of the 2024 national elections, attributing such claims to “sore losers,” likely referring to the BJP.
The Congress government in Karnataka is now focused on fulfilling its promises, reviewing policies, and working towards progress and equality for the state.
