Karnataka Minister Opposes 'Hindu Rashtra' Demand

Karnataka Urban Development Minister Yathindra Siddaramaiah on Thursday criticized the demand for a 'Hindu Rashtra', citing Dr B R Ambedkar's warning that India becoming a Hindu nation would be a grave danger. Speaking at a conference in Bidar, he alleged communal forces are dividing society on religious lines and argued that a Hindu nation would reinforce caste-based inequality. He stressed that religion should remain personal and separate from politics.