A remark made by Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah during President Droupadi Murmu’s recent visit to Mysuru has sparked political controversy, with BJP leaders accusing the CM of disrespect and politicising language.
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During a public event in the southern city, Siddaramaiah reportedly asked President Murmu if she understood Kannada, the state’s official language. The question, though brief, drew sharp criticism from the opposition, who called it inappropriate and insulting to the President - the First Citizen of India.
Reacting to the incident, BJP state president BY Vijayendra, son of former CM BS Yediyurappa, posted a strong statement on social media, saying Siddaramaiah’s remark “reeked of arrogance, condescension and political posturing”.
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{{/usCountry}}“This is no way to treat a guest to our State, let alone the First Citizen of Bharat. Such behaviour insults Karnataka’s tradition of warmth and hospitality and reveals a leader who weaponises language politics for division and political opportunism,” Vijayendra wrote.
He praised President Murmu for responding with grace and humility, noting that she pledged to learn Kannada and honour all Indian languages.
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“Kannada is our pride, but a language should unite and build bridges, and never be used as a tool for demeaning others,” Vijayendra added, writing further, “This incident exposes @siddaramaiah’s divisive and disrespectful mindset, even towards the highest constitutional office. Karnataka deserves better.”
The incident has fuelled ongoing tensions between the ruling Congress government in Karnataka and the BJP, especially over issues of language, identity and cultural politics.
So far, Siddaramaiah has not responded to the criticism. The Congress party has also not issued an official clarification on the exchange.