Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Apr 27: The Karnataka BJP has hit out at chief minister Siddaramaiah after his comments opposing war with Pakistan in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 26 people, were aired by Pakistani media.

Leader of Opposition R Ashoka shared a Pakistani news channel’s video of Siddaramaiah’s statement, calling him ‘Pakistan Ratna’ and accusing him of behaving like a ‘puppet of an enemy nation’. Ashoka taunted that Siddaramaiah might receive Pakistan’s highest civilian award, Nishan-e-Pakistan, for his remarks.

Speaking to reporters in Mysuru, Siddaramaiah had said, "There is no necessity to wage war against Pakistan. Strict security measures must be taken to ensure peace and safety." He also blamed the Centre for lapses, citing intelligence and security failures at a major tourist spot already sensitive after the Pulwama attack.

On the issue of Pakistani nationals in Karnataka, Siddaramaiah assured cooperation with the Centre in verifying and facilitating their departure.

He further criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for skipping the all-party meeting on the Pahalgam attack, questioning whether election campaigns were being prioritised over national security discussions.