Former Minister Sunil Kumar Criticizes CM Siddaramaiah’s Condolences on Khamenei’s Death
Udupi: Former Minister V. Sunil Kumar has voiced strong objections to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s expression of condolences following the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei. Speaking to the media on Monday, Kumar asserted that a Chief Minister, occupying such a responsible position, should have exercised greater caution in this matter.
Kumar questioned the appropriateness of publicly expressing grief when the Government of India has not yet articulated its official foreign policy stance on the issue. He argued that extending sympathy in this context is misguided and constitutes an affront to the nation’s foreign policy. He emphasized that the Chief Minister should have first considered the Central Government’s position before issuing any statement, and should refrain from making pronouncements with the state’s vote bank in mind.
The former minister further noted that celebrations of the event occurred in locations ranging from Iran to Los Angeles, with groups who opposed the late leader marking it as a victory.
Kumar also criticized protests held by some Muslims in India, particularly within Karnataka. He alleged instances of shops being forcibly closed and questioned the allegiances of those involved. He contrasted these actions with the absence of widespread protests following the Phailgam attack, in which civilians were killed, and the lack of demonstrations in response to attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh. He characterized the recent street protests as a serious concern.
Underscoring India’s established trade relationships with several Middle Eastern countries, Kumar stressed the need for heightened caution in such matters. He stated that avoiding conflict is the widely held view and that loyalty should be directed towards India, with no public demonstrations in support of other nations. He urged citizens to maintain peace within the state.
Turning to the current political tensions within the state, Kumar suggested that the gathering of leaders in separate meetings indicates underlying dissatisfaction. He alleged the existence of three to four distinct groups of MLAs who are reportedly unhappy with the current leadership, governance, and the approach of senior Congress leaders.
He further claimed that one group has traveled abroad, another is residing in a resort, while others are holding meetings in various private residences. Discussions are reportedly underway regarding the functioning of the upcoming legislative session.
Kumar criticized the state’s administrative system, alleging a breakdown in order where Deputy Commissioners, secretaries, and even civic workers disregard the government’s directives. He attributed this instability to the Congress party.
Referring to D. K. Suresh, Kumar noted that Suresh had previously stated that the financial implications of the guarantee schemes should have been more thoroughly considered before their announcement. He questioned whether the government was unaware of the potential financial burden these schemes would impose.
Citing Revanth Reddy, the Chief Minister of Telangana, who reportedly stated that it is not possible to provide everything, Kumar sarcastically suggested that the Karnataka state government should similarly acknowledge its financial difficulties and step down from power.