Several Congress leaders, including Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister and KPCC President DK Shivakumar, have strongly condemned Minister Zameer Khan’s controversial comment on former Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy’s skin tone. Referring to Kumaraswamy as “Kariya” in a public statement has been deemed inappropriate by the party.

Addressing the issue on Saturday, Shivakumar stated, “Personal matters between Zameer and Kumaraswamy, whatever they may be, should not involve remarks about skin color. As the party president, I acknowledge that Zameer’s statement was wrong. Wrong is wrong. I have spoken to Zameer privately about this, and he has apologized. Zameer’s public comment was undoubtedly inappropriate.”

Congress MLC Puttanna also weighed in on the controversy, stating, “What is said within four walls is different, and it stays personal. When individuals are on good terms, even harsh words can feel harmless. But when differences arise, even silence can seem offensive. Publicly making such remarks is unacceptable.”

Home Minister Dr. G. Parameshwara refrained from commenting directly, adding, “It’s difficult to respond to Kumaraswamy’s statements. He tends to make different comments in different contexts, so it’s often better to stay silent.”