In a significant development, the Karnataka police took into custody three individuals on Monday in connection with the alleged chanting of pro-Pakistan slogans within the Assembly premises by supporters of Congress leader Syed Naseer Hussain, following his recent election to the Rajya Sabha.
Subsequent to the arrests, the Karnataka branch of the BJP called for the resignation of Naseer Hussain.
Responding to the situation, R. Ashoka, the BJP’s leader of opposition in the state Assembly, highlighted that Congress leaders had previously denied any occurrence of pro-Pakistan slogans.
"What is their stance now? It's not just three individuals involved, but rather a group of 10 to 12 persons who voiced pro-Pakistan slogans. They all ought to be regarded as terrorists. Rajya Sabha member Syed Naseer Hussain should step down without delay," demanded Ashoka.
Ashoka further emphasized, "There has never been such an incident within the Vidhana Soudha. The Congress government, which offered support to the offenders, should be dismissed. We've already presented a memorandum to the Governor regarding this issue. Naseer Hussain managed to bring 25 of his supporters onto the Assembly premises, indicating the extent of appeasement."
He alleged that the Siddaramaiah-led state government only took action following public outcry over the matter.
"Despite clear evidence presented in the FSL report, arrests were delayed. However, the government hasn't made the report public yet. If there's no intention to protect anyone, why withhold the FSL report?" questioned Ashoka.
Ashoka insisted that the accused should be charged with sedition under IPC Section 124A, and Naseer Hussain should also be implicated in the case.
The BJP leader emphasized that this case serves as a litmus test for Congress's patriotism and loyalty to the nation, asserting that the actions of the Congress government are under nationwide scrutiny.
Meanwhile, Karnataka BJP chief B.Y. Vijayendra, speaking at the Belagavi airport, remarked, "There were more than three anti-nationals involved. The arrests of those who dared to enter the state legislature and raise pro-Pakistan slogans came eight days after the incident."
"The backgrounds of the arrested individuals, as well as their motives behind entering the Vidhana Soudha and chanting pro-Pakistan slogans, need to be thoroughly investigated," added Vijayendra.
According to sources, the arrested individuals have been identified as Iltaz from Delhi, Munnavar from R.T. Nagar in Bengaluru, and Mohammad Nashipudi from Byadagi town in Haveri district of Karnataka.
The police, in a statement, announced that the arrests were made based on the FSL report, circumstantial evidence, statements from the accused, and other evidence gathered during the investigation process.
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