Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru (SP)

Bengaluru, Dec 2: Former chief minister Siddaramaiah has been vehemently opposing the proposed law against Love Jihad. In his aggression to criticise the BJP for planning such a move, he used some objectionable words against which controversy was created.

Siddaramaiah, referring to the state government's proposal to introduce anti-Love Jihad law on the line of Uttar Pradesh, said that there is no provision under the constitution to pass such laws and that even if passed, the law would be annulled by the courts. "Both Karnataka and Allahabad high courts have asserted that such laws cannot be enforced. Still, the government is showing an inclination to pass such a law. It is nothing but a move backed by malicious intentions of disturbing peace," he felt.

Siddaramaiah said that the anti-Love Jihad law passed by Uttar Pradesh government is unconstitutional. "Every person after attaining a certain age has the liberty to marry a person of their choice. Our constitution does not forbid marriages between specific religions and castes. Such restrictions cannot be enforced through laws," his asserted.

Siddaramaiah also said that his party will oppose the anti-Cow Slaughter law. He was referring to the statement of the animal husbandry minister about bringing such a law. "Muslim leaders, worried by this development, met me on Tuesday and discussed the matter. Why has the BJP not brought such a law in Goa where that party is in power. Why have they chosen Karnataka?" he wondered.

Law minister Madhuswamy said that 60 to 70 per cent of the population in India comprises basically Hindus and they were converted. He criticised Siddaramaiah for issuing statements meant to appease a particular community and provocate them. MP Shobha Karandlaje also felt that Siddaramaiah has been trying to appease the Muslims because of vote bank politics. She said that an anti-cow slaughter ban will definitely be passed.