The statement made by the former Home Minister Araga Jnanendra about the skin colour of AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge and Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre has come under fire from various quarters.
Hanumanthappa Tippanna Pote, writer and president of Akhila Bharata Dalit Sahitya Sammelan, condemned the statement.
“What Mr. Jnanendra has said is unpardonable. His statement shows his character and upbringing. What can we say about such a person who discriminates against people on the basis of their skin colour or caste? What does he have against black colour? What is the colour of ragi? What is the colour of Lord Krishna, who is revered by Indians? The leader should introspect. Such leaders should know that such a discriminatory mindset is an obstacle to Karnataka becoming the peaceful garden of all communities as per Kuvempu’s dreams. Mr. Jnanendra’s statement has hurt the majority communities in India. It is an insult to Dalits, deprived classes and tribals. He should tender a public apology,” Dr. Pote said.
