JD(S) MLA G.T. Deve Gowda Denies Anti-Dalit Stance, Clarifies Cooperative Society Nomination Views

Quick Summary

• JD(S) MLA and former Minister G.T. Deve Gowda clarified he is not “anti-Dalit” amidst protests by Dalit organisations concerning his opposition to provisions in the Karnataka Co-operative Societies (Amendment) Bill 2025.
• Mr. gowda expressed concerns about maintaining autonomy of co-operative institutions while suggesting inclusion of backward classes alongside SC/ST communities and women in nominations to co-operative boards.
• He highlighted his previous efforts to ensure key positions for Dalits in politics and the co-operative sector, stating, “I am not casteist.”
• On allegations of mass burials at dharmasthala, Mr. Gowda stressed the importance of completing the Special Investigation Team’s probe quickly and punishing those guilty, while defending the institution’s reputation.
• Regarding BJP’s criticism over Booker Prize winner Banu Mushtaq inaugurating Dasara festival 2025,Mr. Gowda supported Chief minister Siddaramaiah’s decision as a matter of prerogative.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The discussions surrounding G.T.Deve Gowda’s remarks on the Karnataka Co-operative Societies (Amendment) Bill highlight ongoing debates on balancing inclusion with institutional autonomy-an issue significant for India’s societal structure championing egalitarian representation across socio-economic divides. protests by dalit groups underline sensitivities around such legislations, were symbolic gestures may intertwine with deeper questions about empowerment.

Mr. gowda’s call for an expedited SIT probe into allegations at Dharmasthala reflects an imperative for accountability amid public controversy involving cultural institutions central to Karnataka’s ethos.

The choice of Banu Mushtaq as Dasara festival inaugurator emphasizes state-level discretion but exposes debates intertwining cultural symbolism with political narratives-a theme that resonates nationally given India’s diverse cultural landscape.

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