BJP Warns of Statewide Agitation Over Police Action in Karnataka
Former CM Yediyurappa leads BJP delegation to meet Karnataka DGP, warning of statewide protests if party workers are harassed over SIR Form-7.
In a high-stakes political confrontation, former Karnataka Chief Minister and BJP stalwart B.S. Yediyurappa has issued a stern warning of a massive statewide agitation. The threat comes as the BJP seeks to protect its workers from alleged police harassment linked to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) Form-7 complaints.
A high-powered BJP delegation arrived at the office of the Director General and Inspector General of Police (DGP) on Nrupathunga Road in Bengaluru on Saturday. The delegation, which included heavyweights such as BJP State President and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra, Leader of the Assembly Opposition R. Ashoka, and Leader of the Legislative Council Opposition Chalavadi Narayanaswamy, submitted a formal memorandum to the top police official.
"No Arrests, No Harassment"
Addressing the media following the meeting, Yediyurappa placed the burden of maintaining order squarely on the shoulders of the police department. He demanded an immediate halt to any legal proceedings or intimidatory tactics directed at party members involved in the SIR exercise.
"Law and order has deteriorated across the state. No legal action should be taken against our workers under any circumstances. They should not be arrested, harassed, or assaulted. If this continues, we will launch a statewide agitation," Yediyurappa declared.
The veteran leader emphasized that while the BJP is a national party that conducts itself with responsibility, the police must remain impartial. He urged the authorities to ensure that law and order is maintained without targeting specific political groups.
Criticism of the Chief Minister
The tension between the ruling government and the opposition reached a boiling point as Yediyurappa lashed out at the Chief Minister's recent conduct. He specifically targeted the Chief Minister's decision to stage a protest at the Election Commission office.
"The Chief Minister who came to the Election Commission office and staged a dharna should be ashamed. It is shameful for him to come and make demands and put pressure on the Commissioner," the BJP leader remarked, questioning the propriety of the government's tactics.
A Call for Legal Impartiality
The BJP leadership maintained that their memorandum to the State DGP is a plea for the rule of law. Yediyurappa insisted that police officers must resist political pressure and focus on their constitutional duties rather than serving the interests of the sitting government.
"If our request is valid, let action be taken. The police should not harass workers at the behest of the Chief Minister. Instead of working to please the government, police officers should work according to the law," he concluded.