Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah clarified that saffron shawls will not be permitted in schools, covering education up to Class 12. He said existing religious practices such as hijab, turbans, rudraksha beads, and sacred threads can continue. Siddaramaiah also weighed in on the NEET controversy, adding to the political debate around campus regulation of religious symbols.
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah launched a counter-attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing the BJP of “betrayal politics” toward its coalition allies. He also turned the spotlight on the party’s internal turmoil in Karnataka, questioning its economic approach and challenging its claims of progress. The exchange raises fresh stakes in the state’s political battle lines.
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Congress retained Davanagere South and Bagalkot in Karnataka bypolls held on April 9, strengthening Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s position. The party’s key strategy was nominating family members of departed MLAs, framing the contests around their legacies. The approach appears to have resonated strongly with voters, delivering a clear win in both seats.
Karnataka’s local alcohol manufacturers have urged Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to revisit a proposed liquor tax system, arguing it tilts benefits toward multinational premium brands while making cheaper local products less competitive. Distillers claim the design of the tax structure could shift consumer demand away from regional players, threatening their business stability and market share.
Karnataka’s cabinet has cleared a Rs 600 crore plan for upgrading minority housing over two years. Supporters frame it as Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s bid to rebuild trust after Muslim leaders voiced anger over Congress’s handling of the Davanagere South bypoll, alleging community figures were sidelined.
A fresh political faceoff has erupted in Karnataka over the Jal Jeevan Mission. Union Minister V Somanna accuses the state of slow progress and poor fund utilization despite substantial Centre allocations. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah counters that the Centre provided little support and released funds late, fueling delays. The dispute spotlights competing claims on the program’s funding and outcomes.
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Heavy rains have battered Bengaluru, with seven deaths reported in a single flooding incident. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah ordered a review of disaster preparedness, while the Lokayukta initiated a suo moto case and warned officials. An engineer has been suspended and notices issued as authorities clear debris, fill potholes and desilt drains to prevent further tragedies across Karnataka.
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge has stepped in to quell speculation over a leadership shuffle in Karnataka, clarifying that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will continue for now. Kharge said any decision would be taken only after discussions with senior party leaders and that the leadership is currently focused on the existing administration, amid ongoing internal lobbying.
Karnataka Congress is embroiled in a leadership tussle, with Deputy CM DK Shivakumar reportedly eyeing the top post while Siddaramaiah’s supporters lobby for him to stay. Home Minister G Parameshwara said Mallikarjun Kharge’s return as chief minister would be welcomed. Meanwhile, some Dalit ministers have pushed for a Dalit CM if a change is made, deepening divisions.
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar said he and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will abide by Congress high command’s decision on leadership. His remark comes amid ongoing speculation over a possible leadership change and cabinet reshuffle, with party clarity expected after election results are announced. For now, Shivakumar insists the state’s next steps will follow the party line.
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Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said local Muslim leaders were involved in Congress’s decision to field Samarth Shamanur in the Davanagere South bypoll, even as minority backlash erupted. The comments follow disciplinary action against two party leaders and raise questions about Muslim community support ahead of the election.
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