Bengaluru: Following his controversial statement about not supporting war with Pakistan, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramiah clarified today that he never claimed we should avoid war altogether. His comments have elicited strong reactions from BJP leaders, who labeled him a ‘Pakistan Ratna’ and referenced media coverage from Pakistan regarding his statement. Siddaramiah emphasized, ‘I never said we should never go to war with Pakistan; I merely stated that war is not the solution. The safety of tourists should have been prioritized, and there has been a failure in this regard.’
He pointed out the shortcomings in intelligence and security provided by the Indian government, asserting that if war becomes unavoidable, it must be pursued. His earlier remarks, which suggested that war against Pakistan is unnecessary, have stirred controversy, prompting him to advocate for enhanced security measures and peace instead.
Pakistani media, including Geo News, highlighted his statements as expressions against war from within India. In response, Karnataka BJP chief BY Vijayendra shared a clip from Geo News, sarcastically applauding Siddaramiah for his comments and drawing parallels to historical events involving India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru.
Mr. Siddaramiah’s remarks have faced backlash from former Karnataka Chief Minister and BJP stalwart BS Yediyurappa, who stated, ‘In a time when unity is essential, Siddaramaiah’s comments are utterly unacceptable and immature. He must grasp the reality and refrain from making such statements while the nation stands united. This behavior is unbecoming of his role as Chief Minister.
I denounce this and believe he should apologize to the citizens of the country and correct his approach.’ Additionally, R Ashoka, the Leader of the Opposition in the Karnataka Assembly, labeled Mr. Siddaramiah as ‘Pakistan Ratna,’ asserting, ‘Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, your foolish and nonsensical remarks have made you an overnight sensation in Pakistan.’
Furthermore, the Chief Minister’s comments have been criticized by his own party members. Congress leader HR Srinath remarked that it was a ‘personal statement’ that does not reflect the party’s position, stating, ‘This is Siddaramaiah’s personal opinion, not that of the Congress party. If he wishes to make such personal remarks, he should resign from both the party and his Chief Minister role. Rahul Gandhi and others have called for unity, and it is wrong to make personal comments instead of adhering to that call.’
Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar chose not to comment on Mr. Siddaramiah’s statements, saying, ‘The Congress Party has taken a stance against the terror attack. I prefer not to comment on the CM’s remarks; you should direct your questions to him.’ The terror attack on April 22 in Baisaran valley, Pahalgam, resulted in the deaths of 25 tourists and a pony ride operator.
This brutal incident has led to demands for decisive action against Pakistan, which is known to support terrorism in India. In response to the attack, India has taken several measures, including suspending the Indus Water Treaty with Pakistan and halting visa services for Pakistani nationals, while Pakistan has threatened to suspend all bilateral agreements.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that India will locate, monitor, and penalize every terrorist and their supporters. He expressed, ‘From Kargil to Kanyakumari, there is sorrow and anger. This assault was not merely on innocent tourists; the adversaries of our nation have dared to strike at the very essence of India.’
He emphasized that the perpetrators of this attack, along with those who orchestrated it, will face unimaginable consequences. Meanwhile, Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha and Congress MP, affirmed that the government has the full backing of the Opposition for any necessary actions.
