SC verdict is a resounding slap on face of Centre's vendetta politics, says CM
In a release, the Chief Minister said: 'This verdict has not only exposed the malice behind the case but has also unequivocally cleared our names of all the baseless allegations.'
'I humbly welcome the verdict delivered by Chief Justice B.R. Gavai and Justice K. Vinod Chandran of the Supreme Court. Throughout my long political career, I have always bowed before the Constitution and the rule of law. This verdict upholds and protects that very belief,' he said.
He said: 'Unable to defeat me politically, the BJP and its allies stooped to misusing constitutional agencies like the CBI and ED to fabricate baseless cases against my wife and harass my family. This is not just an abuse of power but also a disgraceful and cowardly act. The mental agony we have been subjected to will forever remain a painful chapter in our lives.'
Referring to Chief Justice Gavai's remarks that 'electoral battles must be fought through the people, not through the misuse of institutions like the ED', Mr. Siddaramaiah said these words reflect the voice of his own conscience and of every Constitution-believing Indian. 'This is the voice of justice rising against tyranny,' he maintained.
'This verdict restores faith in the judiciary, especially among all who have fallen victim to the BJP's political witch hunt over the past 10 to 11 years,' the Chief Minister said.
'Even now, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah must wake up and stop weaponising constitutional agencies for political gain. It is time they restore the autonomy of these institutions and cleanse themselves of the sins of political misuse,' he demanded.
He also demanded that 'the BJP and JD (S) leaders in Karnataka should publicly apologise if they have even an ounce of dignity or shame left.'
Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Minister Priyank Kharge too launched a counter-attack at the Opposition by demanding that Leader of Opposition in the Assembly R. Ashok and BJP State president B.Y. Vijayendra should resign if they have any dignity left in them.
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