Karnataka Chief Minister Siddharamiah has refused to put on a Tilak, following in the footsteps of Mamata Banerjee. The move has been criticized by the BJP as “votebank” politics.
#BREAKING | After Mamata Banerjee, now Karnataka CM Siddharamiah refuses to put Tilak. BJP slams 'votebank' politics.#Siddaramaiah #BJP #Congress
Tune in – https://t.co/6CjsNJ9CEq pic.twitter.com/r1QjOTidMG
— Republic (@republic) September 17, 2023
After Mamata Banerjee, the Chief Minister of West Bengal, now Karnataka Chief Minister Siddharamaiah has also refused to put on a tilak, sparking criticism from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The move is being seen as a political strategy to appease minority communities and secure votes.
The controversy began when a video surfaced on social media showing Siddharamaiah attending a public event without wearing a tilak, a traditional Hindu religious mark. The BJP was quick to condemn the Chief Minister’s action, accusing him of playing votebank politics.
The BJP spokesperson stated, “It is unfortunate to see Chief Minister Siddharamaiah stoop to such levels for political gains. This is a clear case of appeasement politics and shows his disregard for Hindu traditions. It is disappointing to see leaders prioritizing their votebank over the cultural values of our country.”
This incident comes just days after Mamata Banerjee, the Chief Minister of West Bengal, made headlines for refusing to wear a tilak during a visit to a temple. Both incidents have sparked a debate on the role of religion in politics and the extent to which politicians should cater to the sentiments of different communities.
The Congress party, to which Siddharamaiah belongs, has not yet issued a statement on the matter. However, it is expected that they will defend the Chief Minister’s decision, citing his commitment to secularism and inclusive politics.
As the controversy continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how these incidents will impact the upcoming elections in Karnataka and the broader political landscape in India..
#BREAKING | After Mamata Banerjee, now Karnataka CM Siddharamiah refuses to put Tilak. BJP slams ‘votebank’ politics.#Siddaramaiah #BJP #Congress
Tune in – https://t.co/6CjsNJ9CEq pic.twitter.com/r1QjOTidMG
— Republic (@republic) September 17, 2023