Bengaluru, April 15: Karnataka government minister Priyank Kharge defended the Congress party’s decisions on Wednesday, asserting that the decision to expel Abdul Jabbar was entirely justified.
Speaking to reporters, Kharge stated, “The decisions made by the party are correct, whether regarding candidates or expenditures. No one is above the party. Everyone must adhere to the party line.”
Referring to the Davanagere by-election, he emphasized that once the party announced the ticket, it is the duty of every Congress worker to follow the party’s directives. Kharge clarified that the action against Jabbar was based on his expenditures and other issues. He added, “Many other leaders in the party have made similar remarks, but actions are taken only based on the information presented to the high command. If necessary, further actions will be taken against others.”
On the Women’s Reservation Bill and the special session of Parliament, Priyank Kharge questioned the central government, stating that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, the government supports women’s reservation, yet the draft of the bill has not been made public. He remarked, “Women in the country want to know what this bill entails. How are they being empowered? The Cabinet has passed the bill, but why is there no discussion with stakeholders?”
Kharge insisted that the empowerment of women, backward classes, Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and economically weaker sections should only proceed after the census is completed. He stated, “How can delimitation happen without data? Complete the census, present the data, and then proceed. Why has the Prime Minister been idle for the past 13 years? A census should occur every ten years.”
He also addressed the interests of southern states, saying, “Karnataka is generating better investment, more jobs, and increased tax revenue, yet the central government punishes rather than rewards it. We demand that the census be conducted first, followed by delimitation. This is a question of the future for 1.3 billion people.”
Regarding the issue of restrictions on children on social media, Priyank Kharge mentioned that the government does not intend to impose a complete ban but aims to create a safe environment. He explained, “We have formed a committee. We are discussing with parents, educational institutions, and technology companies. Due to the start of the new academic session, it will take some time, but we will prepare a framework in the coming months.”
Kharge referenced meetings with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and PM Modi, stating that Karnataka is continuously discussing issues like NDRF, JJF, and tax distribution. He claimed that Karnataka is the engine of economic development and should not be penalized.
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