In a recent address at a Hindu workers’ convention in Belagavi, former Karnataka minister and senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader KS Eshwarappa has stirred controversy by urging Muslims to vacate mosques allegedly constructed on sites where temples were demolished. Eshwarappa’s remarks included warnings of dire consequences if his suggestions were not followed, leading to criticism of the divisive statements.
During the convention, Eshwarappa stated, “Two more places, including Mathura, are under consideration. Once the court delivers its verdict, whether today or tomorrow, we will proceed with temple construction. There should be no doubt about that.” He further suggested that it would be preferable for Muslim communities to voluntarily vacate areas housing mosques. Failure to do so, he indicated, could result in uncertain aftermaths and potential casualties.
This is not the first instance of Eshwarappa making controversial remarks. In December of the previous year, he gained attention for asserting that mosques constructed after demolishing temples would not be spared in the country. “I firmly believe that mosques erected by destroying our temples will not be left standing. Not a single one will remain in this country. That’s my personal viewpoint,” he told reporters in Gadag.
Eshwarappa had previously stirred controversy in April of the same year by declaring that the BJP wouldn’t rely on Muslim votes to secure victory in the Karnataka Assembly elections. His statements have consistently raised eyebrows, including his proclamation that India would transform into a Hindu nation and his anticipation of significant events related to temple matters in Ayodhya, Kashi Vishwanath, and Mathura on specific dates.
