Bengaluru, May 6 (UNI) Karnataka Minister for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Priyank Kharge on Tuesday lashed out at the BJP over its criticism of the state government’s anti-communal task force, accusing the party of engaging in "political gimmickry" and "communal polarization".

Speaking to media here, Kharge said the coastal region had been turned into a "laboratory" for communal experiments and questioned the BJP’s claim that Hindu workers were being targeted under the Congress government.

"It is always the poor, the backward, and the marginalised who suffer in these cycles of communal violence. Why is this happening repeatedly? Who is fuelling this vicious cycle?" Kharge asked.

The BJP criticised the government's anti-communal task force, alleging that it targets Hindu activists and undermines Hindu interests. The party leaders have accused the Congress-led administration of promoting cow slaughter and pressuring police officials to arrest those opposing it, asserting that such actions violate Article 48 of the Indian Constitution, which prohibits the slaughter of animals, particularly in public spaces.

Referring to a helpline launched by the BJP for Hindu activists, Kharge challenged the party to reveal how many people had used the service. "They launched a helpline claiming they would offer legal aid and protection to Hindu workers facing harassment. I want to know how many actually called it. Do they even remember the number now?" he said.

The Minister accused the BJP of trying to create communal fear and divide society for political gain. "They keep repeating the same narrative without facts. It’s just a tool to stir up sentiments," he added.

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