CPI(M) stages protest in Kalaburagi against BJP MLC's Remarks on Deputy Commissioner Fouzia Taranum
Activists of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) held a demonstration in Kalaburagi today, strongly condemning BJP MLC N. Ravikumar for his recent derogatory remarks directed at Kalaburagi Deputy Commissioner Fouzia Taranum. The protest, led by CPI(M) district secretary K. Neela, concluded with the submission of a memorandum, addressed to Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. to the Deputy Commissioner's office.
The CPI(M) alleged that the BJP is deliberately fostering communal hatred across Karnataka, citing Ravikumar's statement during the party's recent 'Kalaburagi Chalo' rally, in which he reportedly likened the Deputy Commissioner to someone from Pakistan. The party described the comment as both communal and misogynistic, asserting that it targeted a public servant solely based on her identity as a Muslim woman.
'Fouzia Taranum is an officer of merit. She is recognised by the Union government for her effective handling of the electoral process. Labelling such an individual as foreign-born is not only deeply offensive but also an attack on the secular ethos and unity of the nation. The BJP is attempting to provoke public sentiment against the Muslim community by using such inflammatory language,' K. Neela said during the agitation.
The protestors expressed grave concern over the BJP's refusal to condemn or take disciplinary action against those making such statements. 'It is a part of a broader ideological attempt to impose a regressive Manuwadi worldview on society. Such views aim to undermine the values enshrined in the Indian Constitution and revive caste-based social hierarchies through the backdoor,' an agitating activist said.
In another agitation, Congress party's women's wing took out a protest procession from district Congress party office to the Jagat Circle in the city demanding Mr. Ravikumar's resignation from the Legislative Council membership. They also blocked the main road at Jagat Circle for a half-an-hour as a token of their agitation against the BJP MLC.
'N. Ravikumar's remarks should not be brushed aside as a momentary lapse. We demand his expulsion from the Legislative Council. The silence maintained by the BJP leadership in the wake of such divisive statements poses a serious threat to India's democratic and secular framework,' Renuka Singe, district president of Congress party's women's wing said
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