'Anti-National' Row: BJP Slams Karnataka Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan After He Seeks Exemption From Vijayapura Tricolour Hoisting

Bengaluru witnessed a controversy on August 14 when Karnataka Housing and Wakf Minister B Z Zameer Ahmed Khan sought exemption from hoisting the national flag at Vijayapura district. As the in-charge minister for the district, Zameer is responsible for the Independence Day flag-raising ceremony on August 15. However, he requested CM D K Shivakumar to relieve him of the responsibility citing his busy schedule, which includes ministry duties and preparations for forthcoming elections to Greater Bengaluru Authority local bodies.

Chief Minister Shivakumar accepted Zameer's request and shifted Basavanthappa, the district in charge of Udipi district, to Vijayapura. He also appointed Rizwan Arshad as Udipi district in charge, asking them to take care of the Independence Day flag hoisting ceremonies of the two places. The BJP strongly condemned Zameer's decision, alleging that it was an act of anti-nationalism.

BJP Chief Whip Sunil Kumar stated that hoisting the tricolor is a matter of pride for a minister and by declining it, Zameer has proved himself as anti-national. If he does not wish to respect the tricolor as a minister, he should relinquish his ministry, Kumar said. Opposition leader R Ashok also sought strict action against Zameer, accusing him of dishonoring the National flag and insulting the nation.