Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Tuesday downplayed the controversy caused by Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan's “Kaalia” comment addressed to Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy. Shivakumar explained that Ahmed Khan and Kumaraswamy share a friendship, implying that the comment was not meant seriously.
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He also criticized the BJP for fueling the controversy, arguing that the matter was being blown out of proportion for political purposes.
“Kumaraswamy and Zameer Ahmed are the best of friends. Has Kumaraswamy made any statement on this? BJP people are just trying to create controversy. They are both in love with each other. They have been in love for over twenty years. They will say whatever they want for their love,” Shivakumar told reporters.
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Meanwhile, Ahmed Khan apologized for his comment against Kumaraswamy.
“I apologize if my statement offended anyone. Before, when I was with him, he would affectionately call me 'kulla' (short) and I would call him 'black'. I am ready to apologize if my statement has offended anyone,” Khan told reporters in Mysuru on Tuesday.
Khan said his comments would not affect the state's by-election results. “It is not an issue that requires me to resign. My statement has been interpreted differently. My statement will not affect the elections,” he said.
On Monday, Janata Dal Secular strongly condemned the “racist comments”.
JD(S) has shared a video on social media
In a social media post on Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy was insulted by Zameer Ahmed Khan as “Kala Kumaraswamy” (black Kumaraswamy) in Urdu they have racially insulted the black people and are also guilty of racial discrimination Words of racial hatred from the mouth of Zameer Ahmed, who has a community exalted and encouraged people to deteriorate peace and order in society are an unforgivable crime.”
The party also demanded that Home Minister G Parameshwara and Ramnagar district police should immediately take appropriate legal action against Minister Zameer Ahmed for “racial abuse, racism and trying to disrupt peace in the society”.
The tweet added: “The Secular Janata Dal Party demands that the Home Minister @DrParameshwara and the @spramanagara District Police of Ramnagar immediately take appropriate legal action against Minister Zameer Ahmed for racist abuse, racism and trying to restore peace in the disrupt society. Mr @kharge and National Congress President @INCIndia must first get the sack of this racist Zameer if he can maintain morale for the party.
The by-elections for Shiggaon, Sandur and Channapatna are scheduled for November 13 and the results will be declared on November 23. These seats fell vacant following the resignation of the respective candidates.
