Massive protest by KN Rajanna supporters against ministerial removal

Protests erupted in Madhugiri after K N Rajanna’s removal from the Karnataka cabinet, with supporters staging a bandh, resignations, and even a self-immolation attempt. The BJP demanded answers in the Assembly, accusing Congress of sidelining Rajanna for exposing alleged election malpractices

Hyderabad: Supporters of KN Rajanna protested vigorously in Madhugiri, Tumakuru, against his cabinet removal, staging a bandh and threatening mass resignations, demanding his reinstatement amid political tensions in Karnataka.

Tumakuru; Supporters and fans of former minister KN Rajanna staged a large-scale protest on Tuesday in Madhugiri town of Tumakuru district, condemning his removal from the cabinet. Calling for a bandh in Madhugiri, thousands of activists and supporters participated in the demonstration.

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During the protest, a supporter attempted self-immolation by pouring petrol over himself. Fortunately, bystanders quickly intervened by dousing him with water and preventing a tragedy.

Key leaders from Madhugiri municipality Ward No 22, including the president, vice president, and members, have tendered their collective resignation in protest. Ward 10 member Girija Manjunath submitted her resignation to the sub-divisional officer. While Rajanna’s supporters marched in protest, the BJP seized the opportunity to highlight his removal as a political weapon.

During the Legislative Assembly session, before the start of the question hour, opposition leader R Ashok demanded an explanation from the government on why Rajanna was removed. Speaker Khader noted it was an internal party matter, which led to sharp objections from BJP members.

Opposition leaders raised pointed questions about alleged conspiracies and internal conflicts within the Congress that led to Rajanna’s ouster. R Ashok accused the ruling party of sidelining Rajanna because he had exposed election malpractices, questioning whether truth-tellers would always be sacrificed.

In the Legislative Council, opposition leader Chalavadi Narayanaswamy read out a letter from the Governor’s special secretary regarding the issue, prompting objections from Congress chief whip Salim Ahmed. The chairperson intervened, asking for the matter to be discussed after the question hour, but BJP members insisted that the government provide an immediate explanation.

The political uproar reflects the deep divisions and ongoing turmoil within the state Congress following the high-profile removal of KN Rajanna from the cabinet, with his supporters and opposition alike demanding clarity and justice.