Karnataka Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan faces row over Independence Day absence

A political controversy has emerged in Karnataka following the absence of Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan from an Independence Day flag-hoisting ceremony in Vijayanagara district.

Expelled BJP MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal has called for action against Khan, alleging that the Minister insulted the national flag and the Independence Day ceremony by submitting a letter stating he could not attend. Yatnal emphasized that all public representatives should respect the national anthem and flag, characterizing the absence as an insult to the nation.

In response, Karnataka Health and Family Welfare Minister UT Khader defended Khan, stating that the Minister's patriotism and that of the Congress party cannot be questioned. Khader clarified that Khan had officially communicated his inability to attend due to unspecified reasons or emergencies, and urged opponents not to politicize the matter.