BENGALURU, JUNE 10 :   In a fiery critique aimed at the NDA government, Karnataka Home Minister, Dr G Parameshwara, lambasted the absence of representation from backward classes and Dalit communities in the state’s cabinet lineup.

Dr Parameshwara suggested that this oversight signaled a disturbing trend of neglect toward these marginalised groups in the corridors of power.

Speaking with reporters, Dr Parameshwara quipped, “It’s becoming increasingly apparent that the BJP/NDA doesn’t quite prioritise the voices of our backward classes and Dalit brethren.” He lamented the failure to capitalise on the ample presence of elected representatives from these communities within Karnataka, who were conspicuously snubbed for ministerial portfolios.

Amidst the pomp of the recent NDA government’s swearing-in ceremony under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s stewardship, five Karnataka MPs secured coveted ministerial berths. Yet, as Dr Parameshwara noted, the composition lacked diversity, with names like Nirmala Sitharaman, Pralhad Joshi, HD Kumaraswamy, Shobha Karandlaje, and V Somanna dominating the roster.
However, Dr Parameshwara’s concerns transcended mere representation, delving into the pressing issues facing Karnataka. He underscored the urgency of matters like equitable GST distribution and pivotal irrigation projects awaiting Central approval. Implicitly, he urged the newly-anointed ministers to prioritise these concerns, cautioning against any apathy toward state interests.

Pressed about the prospects of broader community representation within the Congress-led government, Dr Parameshwara dismissed notions of imminent deputy chief ministerial appointments based on communal lines. He stressed that such decisions remained the prerogative of party higher-ups, hinting at a future course contingent upon exigencies.

For now, DK Shivakumar stands as the solitary Vokkaliga community representative in Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s cabinet—an emblem of the current political landscape’s intricacies and disparities.(UNI)