Mangaluru: Kumaraswamy changes stance whenever, however he wants, claims Zameer Ahmad

Mangaluru: Karnataka Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan clarified his recent comments on Union Minister H D Kumaraswamy.

“I never said I would buy the Deve Gowda family. Kumaraswamy himself claimed he didn’t need Muslim votes. My statement was a response to that. I asked him how ethical it is to say ‘I don’t need Muslim votes’ and then try to buy them with money. He had made light comments about Muslims, saying they only fix punctures or other menial work. So, why ask them for votes?” said Zameer Ahmad Khan.

Speaking to reporters in Mangaluru on Saturday (Nov 16), Zameer hit back at Kumaraswamy’s question asking whether he will buy Deve Gowda by working at puncture shops or scrap shops.

“Yes, we are poor. Why do you then ask for votes from us? That is my question to Kumaraswamy. When has he ever spoken the truth? He is known as ‘U-Turn Kumaraswamy.’ He changes his stance whenever and however he wants. My remarks were aimed at him personally. I have immense respect for the Vokkaliga community and have never made derogatory comments against them,” Zameer clarified.

On the Lokayukta notice allegedly issued to him, Zameer said, “I am not aware of such a notice. I have seen media reports. Issuing notices is a normal process. Earlier, the ACB handled these cases, and now they have been transferred to Lokayukta. If a notice has been issued, I will respond as required.”

Explaining his association with the JD(S), Zameer said, “The reason I joined the JD(S) was Adichunchanagiri Swamiji. I am a product of the Matha and grew up under the guidance of Swamiji. You can verify this with Swamiji himself. Every Saturday, I spend the entire day at the Matha. I was raised in the lap of Swamiji.”

When asked about his response to DK Shivakumar’s remarks against the ‘Kaalia’ statement, Zameer said, “I have not seen what DK Shivakumar said. I will respond once I have reviewed his statement.”