Bengaluru — BJP leader Chalavadi Narayanaswamy has sharply criticized the Karnataka Education Department’s decision to revise the school timings for Urdu-medium schools during the holy month of Ramzan. He has accused the Congress-led state government of indulging in appeasement politics and sidelining Hindu interests.
Speaking on the issue, Narayanaswamy said, “This shows their appeasement politics. The Congress party always goes against Hinduism. Even Siddaramaiah is doing the same being a Hindu.” He questioned the rationale behind granting special consideration to Ramzan observances in Urdu schools while allegedly ignoring the needs of Hindu communities.
“If you are going to give special attention to Ramzan, why not to Hindus?” he asked. Narayanaswamy warned that such decisions might create a perception among Karnataka’s populace that the government prioritizes Muslim communities, specifically for electoral gains.
“The people of Karnataka will feel that this government is only for the Muslims, for the benefit of votes,” he added, reflecting concerns about communal bias and political favoritism.
This controversy comes amid rising tensions over religious and cultural sensitivities in the state, with opposition parties frequently accusing the Congress government of neglecting Hindu sentiments.
The Education Department’s move to adjust Urdu school timings to accommodate Ramzan prayers was intended to respect religious practices. However, Narayanaswamy’s remarks have brought the issue into the political spotlight, fueling debates over secularism, minority rights, and governance in Karnataka.
As the state navigates these sensitive issues, the conversation around balancing religious accommodation and equitable treatment of all communities remains a key political battleground.
