Concerns over Cow Slaughter and Hijab Ban
“Promoting Progress and Growth: Karnataka Minister Asserts Willingness to Overturn Regressive Rules, including Cow Slaughter and Hijab Ban, Implemented by Previous BJP Government”
Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge Highlights Drawbacks of Previous BJP Government’s Anti-Cow Slaughter Bill, Citing Financial Burdens and Impediments to State’s Progress
Mr. Priyank Kharge Stresses Willingness to Repeal Regressive BJP Rules, Prioritizing State’s Economic and Social Growth over Political Considerations”
“The Anti-Cow Slaughter Bill: A Pleasing Gesture to Nagpur Bosses, Displeasing Farmers and Industry, Affirms Mr. Kharge
In light of the substantial financial implications, there is a possibility of reconsidering this bill. At a time when we are grappling with financial constraints, we cannot afford such expenditures. Over the next two years, we anticipate a reduction in the budget size, thus the cabinet’s decision can be temporarily suspended,” he stated, referring to a note from the finance department drafted during the previous BJP administration.
Mr. Kharge, who currently oversees the rural development and panchayati raj portfolios in the new Congress government led by Siddaramaiah, highlighted that the BJP’s cow protection initiatives also posed economic burdens.
For instance, he pointed out the plan to provide fodder to livestock. He questioned the BJP’s calculation of ₹70 per animal per day, stating, “I am unsure how they arrived at this figure.” However, based on their calculations, the expenditure to feed the state’s 1.7 lakh livestock would amount to a staggering ₹5,240 crore.
When questioned about the potential political consequences of these actions, Mr. Kharge, the son of Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge, highlighted the significant mandate his party received in the recent state assembly election.
“Our focus lies on the economic growth of Karnataka… the welfare of farmers, traders, and MSMEs. We have obtained a resounding mandate against this ideology. We have received a strong mandate to steer Karnataka towards progress… as a government, is it not my responsibility to ensure every child attends school? If a particular policy is regressive and prevents children from accessing education, should I retain it or revoke it?” he remarked.
The Congress, having secured 135 out of 244 seats in Karnataka, had pledged in its manifesto to “take decisive action against organizations like Bajrang Dal that promote animosity and hatred among different communities.
Mr. Kharge emphasized, “Any policy that is regressive and hinders the economic growth of Karnataka, pushing the state in a backward direction, will be thoroughly examined and, if required, repealed.”
