Davangere: Stoking a controversy, BJP MLA Renukacharya targetted members of the Muslim community during a speech delivered at a pro-CAA rally organised in Davangere on Monday, January 20. Renukacharya also serves as a political advisor to Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa.
Addressing the gathering, Renukacharya labelled members of the Muslim community as “traitors”. “There are a few traitors who sit in mosques and issue fatwas. What is there in mosques? Do you (referring to members of the Muslim community) pray there? Instead of praying, you collect weapons. Is this why you want a masjid? Is this why you want a mosque?” he asked.
The lawmaker further stated that he would like to divert state-allocated funds for the welfare of Hindus, instead of Muslims. “I will resort to such politics in my taluk (Honnali constituency) where the money allotted for Muslims can be used for the betterment of the Hindus and their welfare. I will put you (Muslims) in your place and show what politics is,” Renukacharya said.
It can be recalled that MLA Somashekar Reddy had also warned CAA protesters of “consequences” if the majority community members react against them. He had made these statements at a similar rally held in Ballari on January 2. “If you do any drama, then if 100 percent of people come, understand what will be your situation. Congress people are lying to you, believing them you are coming on the streets. We are 80 percent, you are 17 percent if we react, what will be your situation? Be careful,” he had said.
Following the incident, a case was filed against Reddy for alleged provocative speech.
