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Key Points

Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge has accused the Centre of deliberately excluding BJP leader R Ashok from the Metro Phase-2 inauguration stage. He questioned why first-time MLA B Y Vijayendra was given a spot while the LoP was ignored. Kharge linked the snub to possible internal dissent within BJP Karnataka. The event, inaugurated by PM Modi, covers a 19-km stretch worth Rs 7,160 crore.

Key Points: Priyank Kharge Questions Metro Stage Snub to BJP's R Ashok

  • Kharge alleges BJP sidelined R Ashok in Metro event seating
  • Questions protocol breach over LoP's exclusion
  • Highlights BJP's Vijayendra given stage spot over Ashok
  • Links snub to internal BJP power dynamics in Karnataka
2 min read

If you are being ignored: Priyank Kharge on Metro event 'snub' to opposition leader R Ashok

Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge accuses Centre of ignoring LoP R Ashok during Bengaluru Metro Phase-2 inauguration by PM Modi.

"Has the Central Government forgotten protocol? Or is it a deliberate snub? – Priyank Kharge"

New Delhi, August 10

Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge claimed that the Central government has "refused" to provide a place on the stage for Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, R Ashok, during the inauguration programme of the Metro Phase-2 project by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday.

Priyank Kharge shared the dais seating plan on the social media platform X, which featured Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders B Y Vijayendra and MP Tejasvi Surya, but did not include the name of R Ashok.

"Is the Leader of the Opposition, R. Ashok, becoming a leader opposed by his own party? The Central Government, which has organised the inauguration program for Bengaluru Metro Phase 2, has refused to provide a place on the stage for the Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Assembly, R. Ashok," Kharge posted late Saturday.

https://x.com/PriyankKharge/status/1954243802610421961

"Has the Central Government forgotten protocol? Or is it a deliberate snub? The opportunity given to @BYVijayendra, who is a first-time MLA and not a Bengaluru MLA, has not been extended to Ashok. Respected @RAshokaBJP, Despite being a Bengaluru MLA, the Leader of the Opposition, a senior leader of @BJP4Karnataka, and having been elected multiple times, if you are being ignored, should we assume this is a message that your position is being undermined?" the post added.

Kharge also responded to an earlier tweet by R Ashok in which the BJP leader claimed Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah "did not even tweet to wish" Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on his birthday. The tweet was also accompanied by a screenshot of the tweet.

The Congress leader further stated, "While you were busy worrying about who didn't wish whom on their birthday, now it's time for you to sit and ponder, "Why wasn't I invited?" Instead of peeking into others' houses, it would be wise to notice that your own foundation is shaking!"

According to a press release, the Prime Minister will inaugurate the Yellow Line of the Bangalore Metro Phase-2 project on Sunday, spanning from RV Road (Ragigudda) to Bommasandra, with a route length of over 19 km and 16 stations, valued at around Rs 7,160 crore.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Shreya B
As a Bengaluru resident, I'm just happy the metro is expanding! But I must say, protocol should be maintained. The LoP deserves his place on stage - this isn't about politics but basic respect for constitutional positions.
R
Rahul R
Both sides are playing dirty politics. Congress did the same when they were in power. Instead of finger-pointing, leaders should work together for Bengaluru's infrastructure needs. Our traffic situation is horrible enough without these dramas!
N
Nisha Z
Very disappointed by this behavior. Whether BJP or Congress, such public snubs only show immaturity. Our leaders should set better examples of democratic decorum. #Shame
A
Aman W
Honestly, who cares who sits where? Just complete the metro projects on time! We've been waiting for years while politicians fight over chairs. Priorities, people! 😤
P
Priyanka N
This seems like deliberate humiliation. If true, it's unacceptable in a democracy. The LoP represents the voice of opposition voters - silencing him symbolically is wrong. Hope BJP clarifies this properly.
K
Karthik V
Typical political tamasha! First they fight over who gets credit for projects, now over who sits where. Meanwhile, common people suffer with delayed infrastructure and poor planning. Enough is enough!

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