Bengaluru, Karnataka: In a deeply disturbing echo of the recent Vijay Shah controversy in Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka Congress MLA Kothur G. Manjunath has ignited a furious backlash with what critics are calling “anti-national” and “treasonous” statements against the Indian Army and its operations. While the nation watches the Madhya Pradesh judiciary assertively intervene against Minister Vijay Shah for his derogatory remarks, a glaring question mark hangs over the Karnataka government: Why the deafening silence and inaction against its own ruling party MLA for equally, if not more, heinous comments?
Kothur G. Manjunath, representing Kolar, has reportedly made several highly objectionable statements to the media that are being widely condemned as an affront to India’s sovereignty and the sacrifices of its armed forces. Among his alleged remarks are:
- Insulting Military Operations: A casual dismissal that India “has not fought any wars and merely conducted a pretense of flying aircraft,” directly undermining the valor and efforts of soldiers in critical operations like ‘Operation Sindoor’.
- Questioning National Security: Making the “suspicious statement that our own military might have allowed terrorists into the country,” thereby casting doubt on the integrity and competence of India’s security apparatus.
- Soft Stance on Terrorism: A dismissive response to a terrorist’s burial and compensation, stating, “Whether it is a current or past issue, it is not our problem,” which suggests an alarming lack of concern for national interests and an implied sympathy for terrorists.
- Undermining National Dignity: Shockingly comparing citizens of Karnataka and India to those of adversarial nations like Pakistan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and China.
These statements, far from being mere political gaffes, strike at the very heart of national pride, military morale, and the secular, apolitical ethos of the Indian Army. While Minister Vijay Shah’s comments were deemed “crass” and a “national embarrassment” by the Supreme Court, leading to a prompt FIR and a high-level SIT probe, the lack of similar suo motu action against MLA Manjunath by the Karnataka government is deeply troubling.
“The present generation must understand that the Constitution is upheld by the judiciary, not just by legislation and administration. Ignoring anti-national statements, especially those disrespecting the Indian Army, is unacceptable. When the nation comes first, politics must not overlook such serious matters. The judiciary must guide the government in fulfilling its duty to the country. As patriotic citizens, we feel deeply pained by such negligence.”
The Madhya Pradesh High Court acted swiftly, directing the DGP to register a criminal case against Minister Shah within four hours, explicitly noting a prima facie offense of promoting enmity. The Supreme Court further slammed Shah’s “insincere” apologies and stated unequivocally, “The entire nation is shamed by the minister’s statement,” emphasizing that constitutional functionaries “should be sensitive before making crass comments” and that “law takes its own course” irrespective of political power. The apex court’s close monitoring of the SIT investigation against Shah serves as a “litmus test” for the Madhya Pradesh government’s commitment to accountability.
Given these precedents, the inaction of the Congress-led Karnataka government, with CM Siddaramaiah, himself a seasoned advocate, at the helm, raises serious questions. The public is left to wonder:
- Why is the principle of “equality before the law” not being upheld equally in Karnataka? If a minister from one state faces immediate judicial and legal repercussions for controversial remarks, why is an MLA from the ruling party in another state seemingly immune to similar scrutiny?
- Is the Karnataka government neglecting its constitutional duty to protect national integrity and the dignity of its armed forces? The statements attributed to Manjunath are not merely critical but directly challenge the sacrifices of soldiers and implicitly align with adversarial narratives.
- Does this inaction foster public doubt about the state government’s commitment to national security and its stance against anti-national sentiments? A perceived leniency towards such remarks could be misconstrued, potentially undermining public trust and sending a dangerous message.
- Where does the government stand on upholding the Constitution and ensuring accountability for its elected representatives, regardless of their political affiliation or rank?
The alleged systemic failures, including the MLA’s historical allegations of submitting a fake caste certificate, further compound the concerns. When constitutional principles are reportedly violated with impunity, it creates an environment where “anti-national sentiments can flourish” and national integrity is compromised for political gains.
The people of Karnataka and the nation demand immediate and decisive action. CM Siddaramaiah must recognize the gravity of this incident and order a suo motu legal proceeding against Kothur G. Manjunath without delay. Anything less would be a dereliction of constitutional duty and a grave disservice to the brave men and women of the Indian armed forces who dedicate their lives to safeguarding the nation. The government’s performance in this matter will be a crucial test of its commitment to nationalism, accountability, and the rule of law. (Media Bharath Sources)
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