Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru
Bengaluru, Apr 3: Several BJP leaders in Karnataka were detained on Thursday while attempting to march toward Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s residence as part of their ongoing protest against price hikes.
Led by BJP state president B Y Vijayendra, the protest entered its second day, with party leaders and workers trying to lay siege to the CM’s residence. However, police intercepted them en route, detaining and transporting them to an undisclosed location. Some leaders who resisted were forcibly carried into vehicles, leading to heated exchanges between BJP workers and the police.
Authorities had set up barricades to prevent BJP workers from moving beyond Freedom Park. When they tried to climb over, tensions escalated, and police intervened. Protesters also burned an effigy featuring images of Siddaramaiah and other ministers. Among those detained were former CM B S Yediyurappa, leader of opposition R Ashoka, Chalavadi Narayanaswamy, and B Y Vijayendra.
The BJP launched its agitation on Wednesday, opposing price hikes and the Muslim quota in government tenders. Thousands of party workers, including women, camped overnight at Freedom Park. The protest is being observed across district and taluk headquarters.
Vijayendra asserted that the agitation had reached a crucial phase. “This is just the beginning of our fight against the Congress government. We have decided to lay siege to the CM’s residence because he is working against the interests of the people, the poor, and SC-ST communities,” he said.
Former CM Yediyurappa criticized the state government, stating, “India is progressing under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, but in Karnataka, Siddaramaiah and D K Shivakumar have imposed taxes on everything except air. The common people are struggling.” He warned of continued protests, accusing the government of halting irrigation projects and mismanaging public funds.
R Ashoka accused the Congress government of exploiting every opportunity for financial gain. “They have even increased fees for death certificates. Fuel prices are already up, and next, they will tax liquor. Beer drinkers should be ready to pay Rs 50 more,” he remarked. He also alleged plans to introduce a household tax based on liquid waste generation.
Chalavadi Narayanaswamy alleged that Siddaramaiah misused Rs 38,000 crore meant for SC-ST welfare and was prioritizing reservations for Muslims over oppressed communities. “He takes such liberties because oppressed communities do not question him,” he said.
The BJP has vowed to continue its agitation, with Vijayendra announcing a statewide tour to rally support against the Congress government.