Kumaraswamy cannot tolerate a Dalit like me making political progress: Priyank Kharge

Home, IT-BT and e-Governance Minister Priyank Kharge. File. | Photo Credit: ARUN KULKARNI

Home Minister Priyank Kharge on Sunday (October 18, 2026) accused Union Minister and Janata Dal (Secular) leader H.D. Kumaraswamy of being unable to tolerate the political and social progress of Dalits.

Reacting sharply to Mr. Kumaraswamy’s remarks targeting him, Mr. Kharge said his attire and ability to speak English appeared to have become sources of irritation for the JD(S) leader.

“If my wearing a suit is intolerable to Mr. Kumaraswamy, I will get 10 suits stitched and wear them. If my speaking English is intolerable to him, I will continue speaking English. He can become a film producer and a real estate businessman. However, he cannot tolerate a Dalit like me making political progress,” Mr. Kharge said at a press conference in Kalaburagi.

Responding to Mr. Kumaraswamy’s padayatra, Mr. Kharge alleged that the former Chief Minister had never undertaken such marches in the public interest.

“Let him undertake padayatras and remain healthy. Let him release the evidence relating to the alleged sting operation targeting former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. Let the people know who was behind it. The needle of suspicion is pointing towards him, which is why he is doing all this,” he said.