Daijiworld Media Network- Davangere

Davangere, Apr 22: In a sharp attack on Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, the state BJP has alleged that he is using the caste census issue as a political tool to divide communities for electoral gains.

“Siddaramaiah is not sincere about the caste census. He raises the issue only when his position feels threatened,” said BJP state president and MLA BY Vijayendra, addressing the third phase of the Janakrosh Yatra that kicked off on Monday.

The yatra, launched to protest against the state government’s policies, is covering Davangere and Haveri districts and will proceed towards Gadag and Koppal. The BJP has accused the Congress-led government of failing to control rising rice prices and slammed its handling of the controversial Muslim quota.

Vijayendra reiterated that the BJP stands firm on justice for all communities—backward, oppressed, and marginalised. However, he accused the Congress of exploiting the caste census to trigger social discord. “Siddaramaiah is sowing the seeds of division. He’s misleading people,” he said.

The BJP leader also pointed to recent developments, claiming that the Chief Minister's increased travel to districts outside Bengaluru is a reaction to growing public anger. “Since I highlighted that the CM and ministers are restricted to Bengaluru, I see that he has suddenly planned visits to Belagavi and other regions. The pressure of people’s resentment is now visible,” he remarked.

Meanwhile, reacting to the alleged incident where Brahmin students were asked to remove their ‘Janivara’ (sacred thread) during an exam, Vijayendra expressed concern. “This is an insult to a sacred tradition. The issue has sparked anger across Karnataka and the country,” he said, urging Siddaramaiah to intervene.

He demanded that the CM take the sentiments of all communities seriously and ensure such incidents are not repeated. “People of various communities wear the sacred thread. The government must act sensitively and uphold cultural dignity,” he concluded.