Siddaramaiah Clarifies Hassan Compensation Amid Political Criticism

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah addressed the tragic Hassan accident, where a canter truck plowed into a crowd on Friday, claiming multiple lives, emphasizing that the government’s Rs 5 lakh compensation per victim is a gesture of condolence, not an attempt to equate human life with monetary value. Speaking to reporters at Mysuru airport, he stated, “The compensation is given to express condolence to the bereaved families,” and directed district in-charge minister Krishna Byre Gowda to personally console the affected families and announce the aid. Siddaramaiah rejected the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) demand to increase compensation to Rs 10 lakh, questioning their own record during their tenure.

The Chief Minister defended the state’s road safety measures, referencing the Road Safety Act and arguing that the government cannot be held accountable for accidents caused by individual errors, such as those by truck drivers. He expressed his respects to the victims while dismissing the opposition’s criticisms as politically motivated. Siddaramaiah also addressed unrelated controversies, including FIRs against BJP leaders C T Ravi and Basanagouda Yatnal for provocative speeches, asserting, “It is very important to maintain peace and harmony. We will take action against those who make inflammatory speeches.” He refuted claims of targeting Hindus, noting his own Hindu identity and emphasizing the inclusive nature of Karnataka’s cultural festivals like Dasara.

Regarding a petition to bar a specific individual from inaugurating the Dasara festivities, Siddaramaiah clarified that the state festival transcends religious boundaries, stating, “Dasara is not a festival belonging to a single religion. People of all castes and religions can take part in this universal festival.” He warned of police action against BJP MP Pratap Simha if he disrupts the celebrations, underscoring the government’s commitment to maintaining harmony. The Chief Minister also addressed the ongoing SIT probe into the Dharmasthala case, assuring no undue delays while maintaining governmental non-interference.

Also Read: Siddaramaiah Backs GST Cut, Seeks Centre’s Help on Revenue Loss

Siddaramaiah took aim at Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s delayed visit to Manipur, questioning why Modi did not visit during earlier unrest, and criticized Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis’ objections to raising the Almatti dam’s height, permitted by a tribunal in 2010. He accused Fadnavis of raising the issue for political gain, noting, “It has been 15 years now, and this objection is being raised for political reasons.” Similarly, he urged the Prime Minister to address opposition from BJP-led states like Goa and Tamil Nadu to Karnataka’s Mahadayi and Mekedatu projects, respectively.

On the topic of the caste census, Siddaramaiah dismissed BJP allegations of adding new castes, defending the inclusion of converted individuals under their current caste and highlighting systemic inequalities that drive conversions. “If Hindu society had equality and equal opportunities, why would they convert?” he questioned, emphasizing the right to conversion amid societal disparities. The Chief Minister’s remarks reflect his administration’s focus on balancing condolence measures, cultural inclusivity, and addressing political criticisms while navigating Karnataka’s complex socio-political landscape.

Also Read: Siddaramaiah Criticizes BJP’s ‘Political’ Dharmasthala Rally