Karnataka Minister for Women and Child Welfare, Laxmi Hebbalkar, emphasized the importance of not politicizing educational matters, highlighting the need to prioritize students’ interests and futures. She expressed concerns over dragging students into political debates, especially in relation to the controversy surrounding the removal of the ban on hijab and religious symbols by the state government. Hebbalkar stressed the significance of maintaining an environment conducive to learning without political interference.
The minister refrained from delving deeply into the hijab controversy but emphasized the careful handling of issues related to religious symbols, emphasizing the need to safeguard students’ interests. She urged leaders to consider the impact of their actions on students’ education and future while addressing any religious or political matters. Hebbalkar also commented on the banners proclaiming Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar as the future Chief Minister, stating that such decisions are the prerogative of the party high command.
Regarding the economic situation and the Prime Minister’s call for fuel conservation, Hebbalkar criticized the government’s response to warnings of a possible crisis, alleging a lack of corrective measures. She questioned the government’s role in the current circumstances and criticized the Prime Minister’s appeals for lifestyle changes without addressing the underlying crisis. Hebbalkar also raised concerns about the media’s portrayal of the Prime Minister and criticized the timing of fuel price hikes post-elections.
