Congress drops minister after controversial statement contradicts party’s stand; BJP calls it a gag on truth.
Karnataka Minister KN Rajanna resigned on Monday after a meeting with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah at the Vidhana Soudha.
Sources say the move came after Congress leader Rahul Gandhi wanted him out over remarks that weakened the party’s allegations of voter list manipulation.
Why Congress Is Upset
- Rahul Gandhi recently accused the Election Commission of colluding with the BJP to add fake voters.
- Rajanna, however, claimed the alleged tampering in Mahadevapura happened when Congress was in power.
- His remarks contradicted the party’s position and gave BJP an opportunity to attack Congress.
Rajanna’s Key Statements:
- “Irregularities happened right in front of our eyes — we should feel ashamed.”
- “When the draft electoral rolls are made, we must file objections. At that time, we kept quiet and now we are talking.”
Congress High Command Watching Closely
- Party sources say Rajanna’s future in Congress is uncertain.
- Suspension is under consideration if he makes further controversial remarks.
- Rajanna is reportedly unhappy and may meet CM Siddaramaiah again.
Rajanna’s History of Defiance
- Challenged Deputy CM DK Shivakumar for the post of state Congress chief.
- Predicted a “political revolution” in Karnataka.
- Questioned senior leader Randeep Surjewala’s actions.
- Often ignored directives from central leadership.
BJP’s Reaction
- BJP accused Congress of having “no democracy” within the party.
- CT Ravi: “If you tell the truth you are asked to resign.”
- R. Ashoka: Called Rajanna’s removal “a precursor to the October revolution” within Congress.
- Claimed the Congress betrayed the Valmiki community, to which Rajanna belongs
With KN Rajanna’s removal, Karnataka’s political landscape faces fresh turbulence. While Congress grapples with internal dissent, the BJP is using the episode to mount fresh attacks ahead of upcoming electoral battles. Whether Rajanna will face further disciplinary action—or turn into a rallying figure for dissent within the party—remains to be seen.
