Security Withdrawal for Chalavadi and Eshwarappa Sparks Political Row; BJP Accuses Government of Bias
Security Withdrawal: The Karnataka Home Department‘s recent decision to revise security arrangements for political leaders has triggered a sharp backlash from the opposition.
Security personnel assigned to Leader of Opposition in the Legislative Council Chalavadi Narayanaswamy and former Deputy Chief Minister K.S. Eshwarappa has been withdrawn, prompting allegations of political vendetta from BJP leaders.
While the security cover for these BJP figures was reduced, the department simultaneously ordered enhanced protection for Congress Minister H.C. Mahadevappa, citing unspecified threats. This move has drawn criticism from Narayanaswamy, who accused the government of selectively targeting opposition leaders while favoring Congress ministers.
Narayanaswamy Blames Priyank Kharge:
Narayanaswamy alleged that Priyank Kharge, Minister for Rural Development, was behind the decision to revoke his security. “If anything happens to me, the government and Priyank Kharge’s family will be responsible,” he told reporters. He further threatened to return his official vehicle and remaining security staff unless the Home Minister provides a formal explanation.
He also criticized the government for failing to provide him official housing despite serving as opposition leader for over a year. “When Siddaramaiah held this position, he fought for and received a government house. Why am I being denied the same?” he asked.
RSS Office Security Also Withdrawn:
BJP MLC N. Ravikumar joined the chorus of criticism, questioning why security at the RSS office was also withdrawn. He accused the Congress government of attempting to suppress RSS activities and enabling unauthorized protests outside its premises. “Congress goons shouted slogans without permission. If they weren’t goons, they would have sought proper approval,” he said.
Ravikumar warned that if cases are not filed against those responsible, BJP leaders would stage protests outside the homes of the Chief Minister and 33 cabinet ministers.
Political Fallout Intensifies:
The security reshuffle comes amid heightened political tensions in Karnataka, with opposition leaders accusing the Congress-led government of using administrative tools to intimidate dissenters. The Home Department has yet to issue a formal statement clarifying the rationale behind the changes.
As the controversy deepens, calls for transparency and equal treatment in security provision are growing louder, with both parties preparing for a potential showdown in the coming days.
