Kumaraswamy Alleges Karnataka Government Revived Hijab Issue Due to Muslim Convention
Union Minister says the government’s move on the hijab issue was driven by political pressure ahead of a major convention in Bengaluru.
Bengaluru: Union Minister H. D. Kumaraswamy has alleged that the Karnataka government’s recent decision regarding the hijab issue was influenced by the upcoming Karnataka Muslim Convention scheduled to be held in Bengaluru on May 16.
Speaking at a press conference held at the JD(S) state office GP Bhavan on Thursday, Kumaraswamy questioned the timing of the government’s announcement. He stated that the Congress government has been in power for the past three years but had not taken any decision on the issue during that period.
According to him, the sudden move came only because the Federation of Karnataka Muslim Organisations is set to organise a large convention at Bengaluru Town Hall.
Kumaraswamy said that if the government was truly committed to the decision, it should have acted immediately after assuming power instead of remaining silent for years.
He accused the Congress government of trying to appease a particular community through the announcement. The Union Minister also pointed out that the hijab matter is still pending before the courts and claimed that an interim order related to the case continues to remain in force.
He argued that taking such a decision before the conclusion of legal proceedings amounts to disrespect towards the judiciary.
Kumaraswamy further alleged that the Congress brought the hijab issue back into public discussion following the Davanagere by election results.