Udupi: Karnataka's Chief Minister, Siddaramaiah, criticized the timing of the Centre's announcement of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), calling it a political maneuver ahead of the imminent Lok Sabha elections, and questioned why it took over four years for its implementation.

He stated, "Why did they remain silent all these years regarding the implementation of the CAA? With the Lok Sabha elections looming, the BJP appears to be resorting to various tactics."

Regarding the implementation of the CAA in the state, Siddaramaiah mentioned that his government has not yet deliberated on the matter, and a decision will be made after a thorough review, with discussions scheduled in the cabinet the following day.

Addressing the recent affiliations of former Commission for Backward Classes Chairman, Jayaprakash Hegde, and ex-MLA Sukumar Shetty to the Congress, the CM emphasized Hegde's prior association with the party, expressing confidence in bolstering the Congress's influence in coastal districts with his return.

Regarding Hegde's potential candidacy for the Udupi-Chikmagaluru Lok Sabha constituency, Siddaramaiah deferred to the Congress high command for the final decision.