Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje of Karnataka found herself embroiled in controversy following her remarks concerning the Rameshwaram Cafe blast in Bengaluru, where she attributed blame to "Tamilians" for allegedly planting bombs in Karnataka. As a result of her statements, the Opposition swiftly criticized her, prompting action from the Election Commission.
On Thursday, a case was registered against Karandlaje in Karnataka based on directives from the Election Commission, invoking Sections 123(3A), 125, and 123(3) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
The controversy erupted after Karandlaje's remarks, wherein she pointed fingers at individuals from Tamil Nadu for perpetrating violence in Karnataka. The ruling DMK in Tamil Nadu lodged a complaint with the Election Commission, alleging violations of the Model Code of Conduct and electoral laws by Karandlaje.
Responding to the complaint, the Election Commission swiftly instructed Karnataka's Chief Electoral Officer to take immediate action against Karandlaje.
In her original statement made in Bengaluru, Karandlaje remarked on the perceived deterioration of law and order in Karnataka, attributing various acts of violence to individuals from neighboring states. However, she later issued an apology and retracted her comments, expressing regret for any offense caused.
In her apology posted on 'X', Karandlaje clarified that her remarks were intended to shed light on specific incidents, particularly those related to the Rameshwaram Cafe blast, and were not intended to cast aspersions on any community. She extended her apology to the people of Tamil Nadu and retracted her earlier statements.
The episode underscores the sensitivity surrounding inter-state relations and the importance of responsible rhetoric, especially during periods of heightened political tensions and electoral campaigning.
