Karnataka Minister BZ Zameer Ahmed Khan Faces Backlash Over Alleged Racist Remark Against HD Kumaraswamy

A political row erupted in Karnataka after Congress minister BZ Zameer Ahmed Khan allegedly made a racist remark against JD(S) leader and Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy. Khan referred to Kumaraswamy as “Kaaliya Kumaraswamy,” a term that many regard as a slur targeting dark-complexioned individuals, while discussing Channapatna Congress candidate CP Yogeeshwara’s recent return to the party. The comment has sparked outrage, with JD(S) demanding Khan’s immediate removal from the cabinet.

JD(S) condemned the remark as “racist,” questioning the Congress on how it views prominent leaders like party president Mallikarjun Kharge and ministers HC Mahadevappa, Satish Jarakiholi, Priyank Kharge, and KH Muniyappa, who share similar backgrounds. JD(S) called the comment a “new low in political discourse” and reiterated its demand for Khan’s dismissal.

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju also criticized Khan’s remarks, highlighting a pattern of alleged discriminatory comments from Congress figures. Rijiju’s statement on social media likened Khan’s remark to past controversial comments by Congress leaders on the appearance of people from different regions in India, amplifying the controversy and calls for accountability.

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