K'taka Home Minister supports AHINDA convention, says Kharge aware of situation

BENGALURU: Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara said on Wednesday that the proposed AHINDA convention in Hubballi was aimed at addressing the socio-economic backwardness of marginalised communities and bringing them into the mainstream.

The event is being held amid speculation that the convention was a show of strength for Chief Minister Siddaramaiah amid the row over the change of guard in the state.

It can be noted that AHINDA stands for Alpasankhyataru, Hindulidavaru, and Dalitaru and refers to Minorities, Backward Classes, and Dalits.

Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru, he said the AHINDA movement was initiated to uplift communities that are educationally, socially and economically backward.

He further added that AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge is well aware of the prevailing political situation in the state within the ruling Congress party.

Further supporting the AHINDA convention, he said, “Such a convention should be held. Their issues must be discussed and addressed. It is important that these communities are encouraged to come into the mainstream."

Responding to questions on why a separate Dalit convention had not been held, Parameshwara said the concerns of Dalits would also be addressed within the AHINDA framework.

On the ongoing speculation over a possible change in the Chief Minister, the Home Minister said he did not have much information, and it would not be appropriate for him to comment. He said AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge was well aware of the political situation in the state.

“It is a matter of pride that Kharge is the AICC president. He has vast experience and a deep understanding of state politics. If he becomes Chief Minister, it would be a matter of great happiness,” he said.

He also clarified recent visits by senior leaders to New Delhi, stating that Deputy Chief Minister and State Congress President D.K. Shivakumar had gone to discuss issues related to protection, while leaders such as Minister Satish Jarkiholi and Minister K.H. Muniyappa had visited to meet the SC Commission regarding internal reservation matters.

On criticism over the Speaker’s office remaining silent in the Congress MLA Vinay Kulkarni case, Parameshwara said the matter was part of a process that could not be stopped. “There may be a delay of a day or two, but the process will be completed,” he said.