Tue Nov 12 10:52:44 UTC 2024: ## Karnataka Housing Minister Apologizes for Racist Remark Against Former CM

**Mysuru, November 12, 2024** – Karnataka’s Housing Minister, B. Z. Zameer Ahmed Khan, has apologized for his comments about the skin colour of former Chief Minister and Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy. Khan, who is facing criticism from both the BJP and JD(S), initially claimed that he used to call Kumaraswamy “kariyanna” (black coloured person) affectionately when they were colleagues in the JD(S). He argued that the remarks were made in a lighthearted manner and not meant to be disrespectful.

However, following backlash, Khan issued an apology, stating that if his words have hurt anyone, he regrets it. The minister emphasized that his remarks were taken out of context and were not intended to influence the upcoming by-elections in Channapatna.

The JD(S) has demanded Khan’s resignation over the controversial remarks, which they consider racist. Khan has firmly rejected the demand, claiming that he has not done anything wrong.

Responding to allegations that he tried to buy the support of former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda’s family during campaigning in Channapatna, Khan denied any such comment. He admitted to stating that Kumaraswamy cannot buy Muslim votes in Channapatna, but clarified that his remarks were taken out of context.

Khan is currently in Mysuru to campaign for the upcoming Waqf elections, scheduled for November 19. He denied that the meeting will focus on the Waqf Board’s claims on farmland, stating that the focus will be on the upcoming elections.

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