BJP Accuses CM Siddaramaiah of Backing Conversions
The Karnataka BJP has attacked Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, alleging that he is undermining Hinduism and indirectly supporting religious conversions. Senior BJP leaders, including C. T. Ravi and B. Y. Vijayendra, criticised the CM’s remarks, claiming they reflect an anti-Hindu stance.
Siddaramaiah’s Clarification
Siddaramaiah said that conversions are not driven by government policies but occur mainly due to inequality and social injustice. He added that the caste categorisation of Christians in the state survey was not aimed at encouraging conversions but to gather data for social inclusion.
BJP’s Reaction
BJP leaders condemned Siddaramaiah’s statements, accusing him of dividing Hindus and hurting their sentiments. They demanded that the CM withdraw his remarks and stop policies that, according to them, weaken Hindu unity.
Political Context
The row comes amid Karnataka’s socio-educational survey and caste census, which includes identifiers for Christian castes. The BJP argues that this could be misused to promote conversions. Siddaramaiah defended the survey, saying it upholds religious freedom and aims to address inequality rather than fuel religious change.
