Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India]: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Karnataka has intensified its protests against the state government over rising prices, announcing plans to ‘gherao’ Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s residence on Thursday at 11 AM.
BJP Accuses Karnataka Government of Failing Citizens
BJP MLA S.R. Vishwanath accused the government of burdening the common man with price hikes, including a recent increase in water prices announced by Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar.
“We have been protesting since yesterday, yet DK Shivakumar has now declared a water price hike too. The people must protest against these hikes and corruption… Soon, people will take to the streets,” Vishwanath stated.
BJP staged an overnight protest at Bengaluru’s Freedom Park, continuing their agitation into the morning.
‘Only Price Hikes Have Been Implemented,’ Says Karnataka BJP President
Karnataka BJP President BY Vijayendra lashed out at the Congress-led government, claiming inflation was the only ‘guarantee’ implemented by the ruling party.
“This government promised five guarantees, but the only guarantee they have delivered is price hikes. The common man is suffering… If they don’t withdraw these hikes, people will come out on the streets and not allow them to function,” Vijayendra warned.
He urged CM Siddaramaiah to step out of his air-conditioned office and tour the state to understand the real impact of inflation.
Suspension of 18 BJP MLAs Sparks Outrage
Adding to the political tension, 18 BJP MLAs were suspended for six months from the Karnataka Assembly amid the ‘honey-trap’ controversy, sparking sharp criticism.
LoP Chalavadi Narayanaswamy denounced the government’s handling of inflation, and also slammed ministers blaming the Centre for diesel price hikes.
“Only irresponsible ministers can make such statements. This government is failing on all fronts,” he said.
Political Standoff Escalates
- BJP has demanded a rollback of price hikes and called for mass protests.
- The Karnataka government defends the price adjustments, citing fiscal needs.
- Protests outside Vidhana Soudha and the CM’s residence could escalate tensions further.
With BJP turning up the heat on the Congress government, will this lead to policy reversals or intensify political conflict in Karnataka?