BJP leader tells Dalit leader not to try to become an intellectual by debating on Lord Rama

Karnataka Chief minister Siddaramaiah with Minister of Social Welfare H. C. Mahadevappa.
| Photo Credit: File photo

Taunting Social Welfare Minister H. C. Mahadevappa for his remarks that Valmiki’s Rama was different from Ayodhya’s Rama, the opposition BJP asked if it would be better to discuss corruption in the Valmiki ST Development Corporation as it impacts people of the community rather than debate Valmiki’s Rama. 

In a social media post, Leader of the Opposition R. Ashok on Monday asked Mr. Mahadevappa not to try to become an ‘intellectual’ by triggering such ‘unwanted’ debates. He said, “Kannadigas are tired of seeing the officiousness of intellectuals in a state of confusion who mushroom whenever the Congress comes to power.” 

He said, “Instead of politicking in the name of Buddha, Basavanna and Dr. B. R. Ambedkar to get power, it is better to tread the ideal path shown by these stalwarts while in power.”

Mr. Ashok asked Mr. Mahadevappa to desist from trying to ‘divide the Hindu community’ through such talk. He alleged that Congress leaders are unable to digest the installation of Lord Rama’s statue in Ayodhya though a year had nearly passed since the consecration ceremony.